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Published on: January 27, 2021
IP3R3 gene expression in laying duck tissues and its polymorphisms associated with eggshell quality
Yong Zhao1, Jiezhang Li1, Jinshuai Ma2
1Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction in the Plateau Mountainous Region, Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science, Guizhou University, West Campus, Huaxi District, Guiyang 550025 Guizhou, China; Institute of Xiang Pigs, Guizhou University, West Campus, Huaxi District, Guiyang 550025 Guizhou, China.
Investigating the Inositol triphosphate receptor type III (IP3R3) gene in ducks revealed significant associations between its single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and improved eggshell quality traits. This gene shows potential as a molecular marker for enhancing poultry breeding programs.
Area of Science:
- Animal Genetics and Breeding
- Molecular Biology
- Poultry Science
Background:
- Inositol triphosphate receptor type III (IP3R3) is crucial for intracellular calcium ion (Ca2+) release and calcium homeostasis.
- Understanding IP3R3's role and genetic variations is vital for improving eggshell quality in laying ducks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze IP3R3 mRNA expression patterns in various duck tissues.
- To identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the duck IP3R3 gene.
- To investigate the association between IP3R3 SNPs, diplotypes, and eggshell quality traits.
Main Methods:
- Real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR (qRT-PCR) was used to quantify IP3R3 mRNA expression in 11 duck tissues.
- SNPs in the IP3R3 gene were identified using PCR product sequencing in Guizhou Sansui ducks.
- Statistical analysis (SPSS 18.0) was employed to correlate SNPs and diplotypes with eggshell quality parameters.
Main Results:
- IP3R3 mRNA expression was highest in the eggshell gland, indicating tissue-specific regulation.
- Four synonymous SNPs were identified in the IP3R3 gene, with g.16132 C>T significantly impacting eggshell thickness.
- Specific diplotypes (H1H1, H2H2, H1H2, H5H5, H1H5, H1H3) were associated with significant improvements in eggshell thickness, strength, shape index, egg weight, and eggshell weight.
Conclusions:
- The IP3R3 gene is a significant candidate gene for eggshell quality traits in ducks.
- Identified SNPs and diplotypes offer potential as molecular markers for marker-assisted selection (MAS) and genomic selection.
- Utilizing IP3R3 gene markers can aid in breeding programs to enhance eggshell quality in laying ducks.
