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Du Y, Liu L, He Y, Dou T, Jia J, Ge C. Endocrine and genetic factors affecting egg laying performance in chickens: a review. Br Poult Sci 2020; 61:538-549. [PMID: 32306752 DOI: 10.1080/00071668.2020.1758299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
1. Egg-laying performance reflects the overall reproductive performance of breeding hens. The genetic traits for egg-laying performance have low or medium heritability, and, depending on the period involved, usually ranges from 0.16 to 0.64. Egg-laying in chickens is regulated by a combination of environmental, endocrine and genetic factors. 2. The main endocrine factors that regulate egg-laying are gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), prolactin (PRL), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinising hormone (LH). 3. In the last three decades, many studies have explored this aspect at a molecular genetic level. Recent studies identified 31 reproductive hormone-based candidate genes that were significantly associated with egg-laying performance. With the development of genome-sequencing technology, 64 new candidate genes and 108 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) related to egg-laying performance have been found using genome-wide association studies (GWAS), providing novel insights into the molecular genetic mechanisms governing egg production. At the same time, microRNAs that regulate genes responsible for egg-laying in chickens were reviewed. 4. Research on endocrinological and genetic factors affecting egg-laying performance will greatly improve the reproductive performance of chickens and promote the protection, development, and utilisation of poultry. This review summarises studies on the endocrine and genetic factors of egg-laying performance in chickens from 1972 to 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Du
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University , Kunming, Yunnan, The People's Republic of China
| | - L Liu
- School of Forensic Medicine, Kunming Medical University , Kunming, Yunnan, The People's Republic of China
| | - Y He
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University , Kunming, Yunnan, The People's Republic of China
| | - T Dou
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University , Kunming, Yunnan, The People's Republic of China
| | - J Jia
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University , Kunming, Yunnan, The People's Republic of China
| | - C Ge
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University , Kunming, Yunnan, The People's Republic of China
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Gene Expression Profiling in Ovaries and Association Analyses Reveal HEP21 as a Candidate Gene for Sexual Maturity in Chickens. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10020181. [PMID: 31973127 PMCID: PMC7071030 DOI: 10.3390/ani10020181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2019] [Revised: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Chicken meat and egg productions are essential for human beings. Sexual maturity is important for both egg production and meat flavor. It is necessary to elucidate the genetic mechanism of chicken sexual maturity. In current study, we used digital gene expression (DGE) RNA-sequencing analysis to investigate differential expression of genes in pre-pubertal and post-pubertal ovaries in two different sub-breeds of chicken with different onsets of sexual maturity. After the analysis of RNA-sequencing data, numerous differentially expressed genes were found in both comparisons (32 day old, early-sexual-maturity pre-laying hens (P-F-O1) vs. 103 day old early-sexual-maturity laying hens (P-F-O2), and 32 day old late-sexual-maturity pre-laying hens (L-F-O1) vs. 153 day old late-sexual-maturity pre-laying hens (L-F-O2)). With the bioinformatic analysis, hen egg protein 21 kDa (HEP21) was chosen as the candidate gene to conduct following experiment. The variations in HEP21 were screened and association analyses between rs315156783 and reproductive traits were investigated in fifth-generation Ningdu Yellow chickens from a closely bred population. These results demonstrated that HEP21 is a candidate gene for sexual maturity and ovary development in chickens. However, the underlying mechanism of how HEP21 regulates chicken sexual maturity needs further focused studies. Abstract The age of onset of sexual maturity is an important reproductive trait in chickens. In this study, we explored candidate genes associated with sexual maturity and ovary development in chickens. We performed DGE RNA-sequencing analyses of ovaries of pre-laying (P-F-O1, L-F-O1) and laying (P-F-O2, L-F-O2) hens of two sub-breeds of Ningdu Yellow chicken. A total of 3197 genes were identified in the two comparisons, and 966 and 1860 genes were detected exclusively in comparisons of P-F-O1 vs. P-F-O2 and L-F-O1 vs. L-F-O2, respectively. Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses showed that genes involved in transmembrane signaling receptor activity, cell adhesion, developmental processes, the neuroactive ligand–receptor interaction pathway, and the calcium signaling pathway were enriched in both comparisons. Genes on these pathways, including growth hormone (GH), integrin subunit beta 3 (ITGB3), thyroid stimulating hormone subunit beta (TSHB), prolactin (PRL), and transforming growth factor beta 3 (TGFB3), play indispensable roles in sexual maturity. As a gene unique to poultry, hen egg protein 21 kDa (HEP21) was chosen as the candidate gene. Differential expression and association analyses were performed. RNA-seq data and qPCR showed that HEP21 was significantly differentially expressed in pre-pubertal and pubertal ovaries. A total of 23 variations were detected in HEP21. Association analyses of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in HEP21 and reproductive traits showed that rs315156783 was significantly related to comb height at 84 and 91 days. These results indicate that HEP21 is a candidate gene for sexual maturity in chickens. Our results contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of sexual maturity and reproduction in chickens.
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Ye P, Ge K, Li M, Yang L, Jin S, Zhang C, Chen X, Geng Z. Egg-laying and brooding stage-specific hormonal response and transcriptional regulation in pituitary of Muscovy duck (Cairina moschata). Poult Sci 2020; 98:5287-5296. [PMID: 31376351 DOI: 10.3382/ps/pez433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Broodiness is an interesting topic in reproductive biology for its reduced egg production. The strong brooding trait of Muscovy duck has become a major factor restricting the development of its industry. Broody phenotype and environmental factors influencing broodiness in poultry have been extensively studied, but the molecular regulation mechanism of broodiness remains unclear. In this research, the Muscovy duck reproductive endocrine hormones and pituitary transcriptome profiles during egg-laying phases (LP) and brooding phases (BP) were studied. During BP (n = 19), prolactin (PRL) levels was higher, while progesterone (P4) and estradiol (E2) were lower as compared to ducks during their LP (n = 20) (P < 0.01). We then examined the pituitary transcriptome of Muscovy duck at the 2 reproductive stages. A total of 398 differentially expressed genes included 20 transcription factors were identified (fold change ≥ 1.5, P < 0.01). There were 109 upregulated and 289 downregulated genes at brooding phases (n = 6) compared with egg-laying phases (n = 6). Real-time quantitative PCR analysis was carried out to verify the transcriptome results. The present study suggested that neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction pathway, calcium signaling pathway, and response to steroid hormones biological process are critical for controlling broodiness in the ducks. Further analysis revealed that SHH, PTGS2, RLN3, and transcription factor AP-1 may act as central signal modulators of hormonal and behavioral regulation mechanism associated with broodiness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengfei Ye
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China.,Anhui province key laboratory of local livestock and poultry genetic resource conservation and bio-breeding, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, P.R. China
| | - Kai Ge
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China.,Anhui province key laboratory of local livestock and poultry genetic resource conservation and bio-breeding, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, P.R. China.,College of biological and pharmaceutical engineering, West Anhui University, Liuan 237012, China
| | - Min Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China.,Anhui province key laboratory of local livestock and poultry genetic resource conservation and bio-breeding, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, P.R. China
| | - Lei Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China.,Anhui province key laboratory of local livestock and poultry genetic resource conservation and bio-breeding, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, P.R. China
| | - Sihua Jin
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China.,Anhui province key laboratory of local livestock and poultry genetic resource conservation and bio-breeding, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, P.R. China
| | - Cheng Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China.,Anhui province key laboratory of local livestock and poultry genetic resource conservation and bio-breeding, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, P.R. China
| | - Xingyong Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China.,Anhui province key laboratory of local livestock and poultry genetic resource conservation and bio-breeding, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, P.R. China
| | - Zhaoyu Geng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China.,Anhui province key laboratory of local livestock and poultry genetic resource conservation and bio-breeding, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, P.R. China
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4
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Tan SW, Li PZ, Li H, Yu H, Zhang ZF, Zeng Z, Huang DC. Genetic effects of vascular endothelial growth factor and its receptor 2 on feather maturity in three chicken breeds. Br Poult Sci 2019; 60:109-114. [PMID: 30602288 DOI: 10.1080/00071668.2018.1564244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
1. The goal of the current study was to evaluate the genetic effects of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and its receptor (VEGFR-2) on feather maturity in the Qingyuan partridge chicken, Guangxi sanhuang chicken and Princess chicken. 2. Both SSCP-PCR and qPCR were employed to detect the polymorphism and gene expression of the VEGF and VEGFR-2 genes. 3. Four SNPs were identified in the VEGFR-2 gene. Exon10-A69G was associated with feather maturity (P < 0.01). Princess chickens with the genotype EF had higher feather maturity scores (P < 0.01). Higher expression levels of VEGF and VEGFR-2 were detected in the immature feather group of Qingyuan partridge chickens, especially in the skin. 4. The VEGF and VEGFR-2 genes play critical roles in feather maturity. In addition, exon10-A69G and genotype EF in the Princess chicken could potentially be utilised as genetic markers to improve efficiency in breeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- S-W Tan
- a School of Life Science and Engineering , Foshan University , Guangdong , China.,b College of Life Science , Wuhan University , Hubei , China
| | - P-Z Li
- a School of Life Science and Engineering , Foshan University , Guangdong , China
| | - H Li
- a School of Life Science and Engineering , Foshan University , Guangdong , China
| | - H Yu
- a School of Life Science and Engineering , Foshan University , Guangdong , China.,c Breeding Center , Guangodong Tinoo's Food Co., LTD , Guangdong , China
| | - Z-F Zhang
- c Breeding Center , Guangodong Tinoo's Food Co., LTD , Guangdong , China
| | - Z Zeng
- a School of Life Science and Engineering , Foshan University , Guangdong , China
| | - D-C Huang
- a School of Life Science and Engineering , Foshan University , Guangdong , China
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5
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Zhu H, Qin N, Tyasi TL, Jing Y, Liu D, Yuan S, Xu R. Genetic effects of the transcription factors-sal-like 1 and spalt-like transcription factor 3 on egg production-related traits in Chinese Dagu hens. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY PART 2018; 329:23-28. [PMID: 29602211 DOI: 10.1002/jez.2156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2018] [Revised: 03/09/2018] [Accepted: 03/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Transcription factors (TFs) encoded by SALL1 and SALL3 genes play central roles in the regulation of ovarian development in hens. The present study aimed to examine polymorphisms of these two genes in Chinese Dagu chickens, and to identify the effects of TFs on the laying performance. Among the population, two novel single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified by single-strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP) in the amplicons of the candidate genes. The effect of the SNP (729C > A) in exon 2 of SALL1 gene on egg production at 43, 57, and 66 weeks and EW at 30 and 43 weeks were the most significant in the 360 samples (P < 0.05). Moreover, for the SNP 1014T > A (in exon 2 of SALL3), the TT genotype was significantly correlated with higher egg production and EW (P < 0.05). Furthermore, four combined genotypes were reconstructed based on the two SNPs. The combined genotype TATT was correlated with the highest egg production at 43-66 weeks and with higher EW at 30, 43 weeks (P < 0.05). The polymorphisms of the two TFs studied are potential molecular genetic markers for chicken breeding, which might help in understanding the genetic structure of laying performance and improving these traits directly by marker-assisted selection (MAS).
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyan Zhu
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, Jilin, China.,College of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary, Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning, China
| | - Ning Qin
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Thobela Louis Tyasi
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Yang Jing
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Dehui Liu
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Shuguo Yuan
- Jilin Grain Group Agriculture and Livestock Co., Ltd., Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Rifu Xu
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, Jilin, China
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6
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Lv C, Mo C, Liu H, Wu C, Li Z, Li J, Wang Y. Dopamine D2-like receptors (DRD2 and DRD4) in chickens: Tissue distribution, functional analysis, and their involvement in dopamine inhibition of pituitary prolactin expression. Gene 2018; 651:33-43. [PMID: 29382572 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2018.01.087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2017] [Revised: 01/22/2018] [Accepted: 01/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Dopamine (DA) D2-like (and D1-like) receptors are suggested to mediate the dopamine actions in the anterior pituitary and/or CNS of birds. However, the information regarding the structure, functionality, and expression of avian D2-like receptors have not been fully characterized. In this study, we cloned two D2-like receptors (cDRD2, cDRD4) from chicken brain using RACE PCR. The cloned cDRD4 is a 378-amino acid receptor, which shows 57% amino acid (a.a.) identity with mouse DRD4. As in mammals, two cDRD2 isoforms, cDRD2L (long isoform, 437 a.a.) and cDRD2S (short isoform, 408 a.a.), which differ in their third intracellular loop, were identified in chickens. Using cell-based luciferase reporter assays or Western blot, we demonstrated that cDRD4, cDRD2L and cDRD2S could be activated by dopamine and quinpirole (a D2-like receptor agonist) dose-dependently, and their activation inhibits cAMP signaling pathway and stimulates MAPK/ERK signaling cascade, indicating that they are functional receptors capable of mediating dopamine actions. Quantitative real-time PCR revealed that cDRD2 and cDRD4 are widely expressed in chicken tissues with abundant expression noted in anterior pituitary, and their expressions are likely controlled by their promoters near exon 1, as demonstrated by dual-luciferase reporter assays in DF-1 cells. In accordance with cDRD2/cDRD4 expression in the pituitary, DA or quinpirole could partially inhibit vasoactive intestinal peptide-induced prolactin expression in cultured chick pituitary cells. Together, our data proves the functionality of DRD2 and DRD4 in birds and aids to uncover the conserved roles of DA/D2-like receptor system in vertebrates, such as its action on the pituitary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Can Lv
- Key Laboratory of Bio-resources and Eco-environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, PR China
| | - Chunheng Mo
- Key Laboratory of Bio-resources and Eco-environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, PR China
| | - Haikun Liu
- Key Laboratory of Bio-resources and Eco-environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, PR China
| | - Chao Wu
- Key Laboratory of Bio-resources and Eco-environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, PR China
| | - Zhengyang Li
- Key Laboratory of Bio-resources and Eco-environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, PR China
| | - Juan Li
- Key Laboratory of Bio-resources and Eco-environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, PR China.
| | - Yajun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Bio-resources and Eco-environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, PR China.
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Mitrofanova OV, Dementeva NV, Krutikova AA, Yurchenko OP, Vakhrameev AB, Terletskiy VP. Association of polymorphic variants in MSTN, PRL, and DRD2 genes with intensity of young animal growth in Pushkin breed chickens. CYTOL GENET+ 2017. [DOI: 10.3103/s0095452717030082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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8
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Association of Dopamine D2 Receptor Gene Polymorphisms with Reproduction Traits in Domestic Pigeons ( Columba livia). J Poult Sci 2017; 54:13-17. [PMID: 32908403 PMCID: PMC7477188 DOI: 10.2141/jpsa.0160037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Dopamine inhibited prolactin secretion via dopamine D2 receptor (DRD2) at the pituitary level, but its effects on reproduction in pigeons are unclear. In this study, Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) in the exons of DRD2 gene were identified and analyzed by using DNA sequencing methods in 60 female domestic pigeons (Columba livia), and the association between DRD2 polymorphisms and reproduction traits was also analyzed. Sequencing results showed that 7 nucleotide mutations were detected in the exon 1, 4, and 6 regions of DRD2 gene. The analysis revealed three genotypes (AA, AB, and BB) in exon 4 and two genotypes (AA, AB) in exon 6, in which the AA genotype was consistently dominant, and the A allele showed a dominant advantage. The C4532T genotypes located in exon 6 of DRD2 gene were significantly (P<0.05) associated with reproductive traits of pigeon. Moreover, the individuals with AB genotype had significantly higher fertility rate and total hatching number within 500 days of age than those with AA genotype (P<0.05). These findings suggested that the DRD2 gene should be included in future genetic studies of pigeon reproduction and the SNP of C4532T might be a potential candidate genetic marker for Marker-aid breeding in pigeon.
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9
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Jing Y, Shan X, Mu F, Qin N, Zhu H, Liu D, Yuan S, Xu R. Associations of the Novel Polymorphisms of Periostin and Platelet-Derived Growth Factor Receptor-Like Genes with Egg Production Traits in Local Chinese Dagu Hens. Anim Biotechnol 2016; 27:208-16. [DOI: 10.1080/10495398.2016.1169191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yang Jing
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Xuesong Shan
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Fang Mu
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Ning Qin
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - HongYan Zhu
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Dehui Liu
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Shuguo Yuan
- Jilin Grain Group Agriculture and Livestock Co., Ltd., Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Rifu Xu
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, Jilin, China
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10
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Qin N, Liu Q, Zhang YY, Fan XC, Xu XX, Lv ZC, Wei ML, Jing Y, Mu F, Xu RF. Association of novel polymorphisms of forkhead box L2 and growth differentiation factor-9 genes with egg production traits in local Chinese Dagu hens. Poult Sci 2015; 94:88-95. [PMID: 25577797 DOI: 10.3382/ps/peu023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Transcription factor forkhead box L2 (FOXL2) and growth differentiation factor-9 (GDF9) genes have critical roles in the regulation of hen ovarian development. In the present study, these genes were explored as possible molecular markers associated with BW, hen-housed egg production, and egg weight in Chinese Dagu hens. Samples were analyzed using the PCR-single strand conformation polymorphism (PCR-SSCP) technique followed by sequencing analysis, and two novel single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified within these candidate genes. Among them, an A/G transition at base position 238 in the coding region of the FOXL2 gene and a G/T transversion at base position 1609 in exon 2 of the GDF9 gene were found to be polymorphic and named SNPs A238G and G1609T, respectively. The SNP A238G (FOXL2) leads to a nonsynonymous substitution (isoleucine77-to-valine), and when the 360 Dagu hen samples were divided into genotypes AA and AB, allele A was found to be present at a higher frequency. Furthermore, the AA genotype correlated with significantly higher hen-housed egg production at 30, 43, 57, and 66 wk of age and with a higher egg weight at 43 wk (P<0.05). For the SNP G1609T (GDF9), the hens were typed into TT and TC genotypes, with the T allele shown to be dominant. The TC genotype was also markedly correlated with higher hen-housed egg production and a higher egg weight (P<0.05). Moreover, four haplotypes were reconstructed based on these two SNPs, with the AATC haplotype found to be correlated with the highest hen-housed egg production at 30 to 66 wk of age and with higher egg weights at 43 wk (P<0.05). Collectively, the two SNPs identified in this study might be used as possible genetic molecular markers to aid in the improvement of egg production traits in chicken breeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Qin
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, Jilin, China
| | - Q Liu
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, Jilin, China
| | - Y Y Zhang
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, Jilin, China
| | - X C Fan
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, Jilin, China
| | - X X Xu
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 130118, Hubei, China
| | - Z C Lv
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, Jilin, China
| | - M L Wei
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, Jilin, China
| | - Y Jing
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, Jilin, China
| | - F Mu
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, Jilin, China
| | - R F Xu
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun 130118, Jilin, China
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11
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Luan X, Liu D, Cao Z, Luo L, Liu M, Gao M, Zhang X. Transcriptome profiling identifies differentially expressed genes in Huoyan goose ovaries between the laying period and ceased period. PLoS One 2014; 9:e113211. [PMID: 25419838 PMCID: PMC4242529 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0113211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2014] [Accepted: 10/20/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The Huoyan goose is famous for its high egg-laying performance and is listed as a nationally protected domestic animal by the Chinese government. To elucidate the key regulatory genes involved in Huoyan goose egg laying, RNA from ovarian tissue during the ceased and laying periods was sequenced using the Illumina HiSeq 2000 sequencing platform. More than 12 million reads were produced in ceased and laying libraries that included 11,896,423 and 12,534,799 clean reads, respectively. More than 20% of the reads were matched to the reference genome, and 23% of the reads were matched to reference genes. Genes with a false discovery rate (FDR) ≤0.001 and log2ratio ≧1 or ≤−1 were characterized as differentially expressed, and 344 up-regulated and 344 down-regulated genes were classified into functional categories. Twelve genes that are mainly involved in pathways for reproduction regulation, such as steroid hormone biosynthesis, GnRH signaling pathways, oocyte meiosis, progesterone-mediated oocyte maturation, steroid biosynthesis, calcium signaling pathways, and G-protein coupled receptor signaling pathway were selected for validation by a quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) analysis, the qRT-PCR results are consistent with the general expression patterns of those genes from the Illumina sequencing. These data provide comprehensive gene expression information at the transcriptional level that might increase our understanding of the Huoyan goose's reproductive biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinhong Luan
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, 110866, China
- * E-mail:
| | - Dawei Liu
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, 110866, China
| | - Zhongzan Cao
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, 110866, China
| | - Lina Luo
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, 110866, China
| | - Mei Liu
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, 110866, China
| | - Ming Gao
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, 110866, China
| | - Xiaoying Zhang
- Liaoning Province Livestock and Poultry Genetic Resources Conservation and Utilization Center, Liaoyang, 111000, China
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12
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Relationship between the Production Traits and three Candidate Genes in the Prolactin’s In/Del×In/Del Population of Silkie Fowl. J Poult Sci 2014. [DOI: 10.2141/jpsa.0130075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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Wang C, Liu Y, Wang H, Wu H, Gong S, Chen W, He D. Molecular characterization and differential expression of multiple goose dopamine D2 receptors. Gene 2013; 535:177-83. [PMID: 24309374 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2013.11.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2013] [Revised: 11/14/2013] [Accepted: 11/16/2013] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Dopamine D2 receptor (DRD2) gene, a member of the dopamine receptors gene family, has been studied as a candidate gene for broodiness due to its special effects on avian prolactin secretion. Here, the genomic DNA and cDNA sequences of goose (Anser cygnoides) DRD2 gene were cloned and characterized for the first time. The goose DRD2 cDNA is 1353bp in length and encodes a protein of 450 amino acids. The length of goose DRD2 genomic DNA is 8350bp, including seven exons and six introns. We identified four goose DRD2 variants, which were generated due to alternative splicing. Bioinformatics analysis indicates that all the deduced DRD2 amino acid sequences contain seven putative transmembrane domains and four potential N-glycosylation sites. A phylogenetic tree based on amino acid sequences displays that the goose DRD2 protein is closely related to those of avian species. Semi-quantitative RT-PCR analysis demonstrates that the DRD2-1, DRD2-2 and DRD2-4 transcripts are differentially expressed in the pituitary, ovary, hypothalamus, as well as in the kidney, whereas the DRD2-3 transcript is widely expressed in all the examined tissues at different levels. Meanwhile, 54 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and 4 insert-deletion (indel) variations were identified in the coding region and partial intron region of the goose DRD2 gene. Those findings will help us gain insight into the functions of the DRD2 gene in geese.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cui Wang
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Shanghai Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai 201106, PR China
| | - Yi Liu
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Shanghai Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai 201106, PR China
| | - Huiying Wang
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Shanghai Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai 201106, PR China
| | - Huali Wu
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Shanghai Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai 201106, PR China
| | - Shaoming Gong
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Shanghai Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai 201106, PR China
| | - Weihu Chen
- Zhedong White Goose Institute of Xiangshan County, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315700, PR China
| | - Daqian He
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Science, Shanghai Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai 201106, PR China.
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Abstract
Behavioural adaptation of farm animals to environmental changes contributes to high levels of production under a wide range of farming conditions, from highly controlled indoor systems to harsh outdoor systems. The genetic variation in livestock behaviour is considerable. Animals and genotypes with a larger behavioural capacity for adaptation may cope more readily with varying farming conditions than those with a lower capacity for adaptation. This capacity should be exploited when the aim is to use a limited number of species extensively across the world. The genetics of behavioural traits is understood to some extent, but it is seldom accounted for in breeding programmes. This review summarizes the estimates of genetic parameters for behavioural traits in cattle, pigs, poultry and fish. On the basis of the major studies performed in the last two decades, we focus the review on traits of common interest in the four species. These concern the behavioural responses to both acute and chronic stressors in the physical environment (feed, temperature, etc.) and those in the social environment (other group members, progeny, humans). The genetic strategies used to improve the behavioural capacity for adaptation of animals differ between species. There is a greater emphasis on responses to acute environmental stress in fish and birds, and on responses to chronic social stress in mammals.
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Shen X, Zeng H, Xie L, He J, Li J, Xie X, Luo C, Xu H, Zhou M, Nie Q, Zhang X. The GTPase activating Rap/RanGAP domain-like 1 gene is associated with chicken reproductive traits. PLoS One 2012; 7:e33851. [PMID: 22496769 PMCID: PMC3322132 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0033851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2011] [Accepted: 02/19/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Abundant evidence indicates that chicken reproduction is strictly regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonad (HPG) axis, and the genes included in the HPG axis have been studied extensively. However, the question remains as to whether any other genes outside of the HPG system are involved in regulating chicken reproduction. The present study was aimed to identify, on a genome-wide level, novel genes associated with chicken reproductive traits. Methodology/Principal Finding Suppressive subtractive hybridization (SSH), genome-wide association study (GWAS), and gene-centric GWAS were used to identify novel genes underlying chicken reproduction. Single marker-trait association analysis with a large population and allelic frequency spectrum analysis were used to confirm the effects of candidate genes. Using two full-sib Ningdu Sanhuang (NDH) chickens, GARNL1 was identified as a candidate gene involved in chicken broodiness by SSH analysis. Its expression levels in the hypothalamus and pituitary were significantly higher in brooding chickens than in non-brooding chickens. GWAS analysis with a NDH two tail sample showed that 2802 SNPs were significantly associated with egg number at 300 d of age (EN300). Among the 2802 SNPs, 2 SNPs composed a block overlapping the GARNL1 gene. The gene-centric GWAS analysis with another two tail sample of NDH showed that GARNL1 was strongly associated with EN300 and age at first egg (AFE). Single marker-trait association analysis in 1301 female NDH chickens confirmed that variation in this gene was related to EN300 and AFE. The allelic frequency spectrum of the SNP rs15700989 among 5 different populations supported the above associations. Western blotting, RT-PCR, and qPCR were used to analyze alternative splicing of the GARNL1 gene. RT-PCR detected 5 transcripts and revealed that the transcript, which has a 141 bp insertion, was expressed in a tissue-specific manner. Conclusions/Significance Our findings demonstrate that the GARNL1 gene contributes to chicken reproductive traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu Shen
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hua Zeng
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Liang Xie
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Institute of Animal Science and Veterinary, Hainan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Haikou, Hainan, China
| | - Jun He
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jian Li
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiujuan Xie
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chenglong Luo
- Institute of Animal Science, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Haiping Xu
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, Guangzhou, China
| | - Min Zhou
- Biotechnology Institute, Jiang Xi Education College, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Qinghua Nie
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiquan Zhang
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Agro-Animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding, Guangzhou, China
- * E-mail:
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Xu HP, Zeng H, Zhang DX, Jia XL, Luo CL, Fang MX, Nie QH, Zhang XQ. Polymorphisms associated with egg number at 300 days of age in chickens. GENETICS AND MOLECULAR RESEARCH 2011; 10:2279-89. [PMID: 22002122 DOI: 10.4238/2011.october.3.5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
We looked for variations that could be associated with chicken egg number at 300 days of age (EN300) in seven genes of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, including gonadotrophin-releasing hormone-I (GnRH-I), GnRH receptor (GnRHR), neuropeptide Y (NPY), dopamine D2 receptor (DRD2), vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP), VIP receptor-1 (VIPR-1), prolactin (PRL), and the QTL region between 87 and 105 cM of the Z chromosome. Ten mutations in the seven genes were chosen to do marker-trait association analyses in a population comprising 1310 chickens, which were obtained from a company located in Guangdong Province of China. The C1704887T of VIPR-1 was found to have a highly significant association with EN300. The T5841629C of DRD2 and the C1715301T of VIPR-1 were significantly associated with EN300. A highly significant association was also found between the C1704887T-C1715301T haplotypes of VIPR-1 and EN300. H1H3 had the highest EN300. Four PCR-RFLP variations in the candidate QTL region were selected to investigate their genetic effects on EN300. The haplotypes of T32742468C-G32742603A in this region showed a highly significant association with EN300. Bioinformatics analyses showed that both T32742468C and G32742603A were located in intron 1 of the SH3-domain GRB2-like 2 (SH3GL2) gene. We conclude that five SNPs, including C1704887T and C1715301T of VIPR-1, T5841629C of DRD2, and T32742468C and G32742603A of SH3GL2, would be useful as markers for breeding to increase chicken EN300.
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Affiliation(s)
- H P Xu
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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Xu H, Zeng H, Luo C, Zhang D, Wang Q, Sun L, Yang L, Zhou M, Nie Q, Zhang X. Genetic effects of polymorphisms in candidate genes and the QTL region on chicken age at first egg. BMC Genet 2011; 12:33. [PMID: 21492484 PMCID: PMC3096585 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2156-12-33] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2010] [Accepted: 04/15/2011] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The age at first egg (AFE), an important indicator for sexual maturation in female chickens, is controlled by polygenes. Based on our knowledge of reproductive physiology, 6 genes including gonadotrophin releasing hormone-I (GnRH-I), neuropeptide Y (NPY), dopamine D2 receptor (DRD2), vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP), VIP receptor-1 (VIPR-1), and prolactin (PRL), were selected as candidates for influencing AFE. Additionally, the region between ADL0201 and MCW0241 of chromosome Z was chosen as the candidate QTL region according to some QTL databases. The objective of the present study was to investigate the effects of mutations in candidate genes and the QTL region on chicken AFE. Results Marker-trait association analysis of 8 mutations in those 6 genes in a Chinese native population found a highly significant association (P < 0.01) between G840327C of the GnRH-I gene with AFE, and it remained significant even with Bonferroni correction. Based on the results of the 2-tailed χ2 test, mutations T32742394C, T32742468C, G32742603A, and C33379782T in the candidate QTL region of chromosome Z were selected for marker-trait association analysis. The haplotypes of T32742394C and T32742468C were significantly associated (P < 0.05) with AFE. Bioinformatics analysis indicated that T32742394C and T32742468C were located in the intron region of the SH3-domain GRB2-like 2 (SH3GL2) gene, which appeared to be associated in the endocytosis and development of the oocyte. Conclusion This study found that G840327C of the GnRH-I gene and the haplotypes of T32742394C-T32742468C of the SH3GL2 gene were associated with the chicken AFE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiping Xu
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, Guangdong, China
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Xu H, Shen X, Zhou M, Fang M, Zeng H, Nie Q, Zhang X. The genetic effects of the dopamine D1 receptor gene on chicken egg production and broodiness traits. BMC Genet 2010; 11:17. [PMID: 20199684 PMCID: PMC2848132 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2156-11-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2009] [Accepted: 03/03/2010] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The elevation of egg production and the inhibition of incubation behavior are the aims of modern poultry production. Prolactin (PRL) gene is confirmed to be critical for the onset and maintenance of these reproductive behaviors in birds. Through PRL, dopamine D1 receptor (DRD1) was also involved in the regulation of chicken reproductive behavior. However, the genetic effects of this gene on chicken egg production and broodiness have not been studied extensively. The objective of this research was to evaluate the genetic effects of the DRD1 gene on chicken egg production and broodiness traits. Results In this study, the chicken DRD1 gene was screened for the polymorphisms by cloning and sequencing and 29 variations were identified in 3,342 bp length of this gene. Seven single nucleotide polymorphism (SNPs) among these variations, including a non-synonymous mutation (A+505G, Ser169Gly), were located in the coding region and were chosen to analyze their association with chicken egg production and broodiness traits in 644 Ningdu Sanhuang individuals. Two SNPs, G+123A and C+1107T, were significantly associated with chicken broody frequency (P < 0.05). Significant association was also found between the G+1065A - C+1107T haplotypes and chicken broody frequency (P < 0.05). In addition, the haplotypes of G+123A and T+198C were significantly associated with weight of first egg (EW) (P = 0.03). On the other hand, the distribution of the DRD1 mRNA was observed and the expression difference was compared between broodiness and non-broodiness chickens. The DRD1 mRNA was predominantly expressed in subcutaneous fat and abdominal fat of non-broodiness chicken, and then in heart, kidney, oviduct, glandular stomach, hypothalamus, and pituitary. In subcutaneous fat and abdominal fat, the level of non-broodiness was 26 to 28 times higher than that of broodiness. In pituitary, it was 5-fold higher. In heart, oviduct, and kidney, a 2-3 times decrease from non-broodiness to broodiness was displayed. In glandular stomach and hypothalamus, the level seen in non-broodiness and broodiness was almost the same. Conclusion The polymorphisms of the DRD1 gene and their haplotypes were associated with chicken broody frequency and some egg production traits. The mRNA distribution was significant different between broodiness and non-broodiness chickens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiping Xu
- Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, Guangdong, China.
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