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Transcriptomic analysis identifies CXCL12 as a novel candidate gene for litter size in rabbits
Zhiyuan Bao1, Jie Yang1, Jiali Li1
1College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China.
Animal Bioscience
|April 11, 2025
Summary
Chemokine ligand C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 12 (CXCL12) promotes granulosa cell proliferation, enhancing rabbit litter size. This gene is a promising marker for selecting rabbits with higher reproductive potential in breeding programs.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive biology
- Molecular genetics
- Animal breeding
Background:
- Ovarian function is crucial for regulating litter size in rabbits.
- Gene expression patterns in the ovary influence reproductive capacity.
Purpose of the Study:
- Identify candidate genes associated with litter size in New Zealand rabbits.
- Investigate the role of chemokine ligand C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 12 (CXCL12) in regulating granulosa cell function and litter size.
Main Methods:
- Ovarian transcriptome sequencing to compare high and low litter size groups.
- Cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay and flow cytometry for cell proliferation and apoptosis analysis.
- Quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR) and Western blotting to assess gene and protein expression.
Main Results:
- CXCL12 promotes granulosa cell proliferation and inhibits apoptosis.
- CXCL12 regulates genes and proteins involved in cell cycle, proliferation, and follicle development.
- CXCL12 activates the JAK/STAT signaling pathway via the CXCR4 receptor.
Conclusions:
- CXCL12 is a key gene influencing rabbit litter size by promoting granulosa cell proliferation.
- CXCL12 is a potential genetic marker for selecting rabbits with improved litter size in breeding programs.
