Transcriptional profiling and pathway analysis reveal differences in pituitary gland function, morphology, and vascularization in chickens genetically selected for high or low body weight

摘要: Though intensive genetic selection has led to extraordinary advances in growth rate and feed efficiency production of meat-type chickens, endocrine processes controlling these traits are still poorly understood. The anterior pituitary gland is a central component the neuroendocrine system plays key role regulating important physiological that directly impact broiler efficiency, though how differences function contribute various body composition phenotypes not fully Global gene expression was evaluated on post-hatch weeks 1, 3, 5, 7 male chickens selected for high (HG) or low (LG) growth. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were analyzed with ontology categorization, self-organizing maps, interaction network determination, upstream regulator identification uncover novel pathways contributing composition. A total 263 differentially between HG LG glands (P ≤ 0.05 line-by-age main effect line; ≥1.6-fold difference lines), including encoding four hormones. Genes involved signal transduction, transcriptional regulation, vesicle-mediated transport predicted influence secretion DEGs immune regulation provide evidence inflammation response cellular stressors may compromise birds, affecting their ability adequately produce Many also regulate organ morphology angiogenesis, suggesting structure differs divergently lines. large number within birds weight highlights importance this economically such as chickens. Intracellular signaling, membrane trafficking proper hormone secretion. data suggest intimately tied structure, organization could hypothalamic systemic metabolic inputs delivery hormones metabolism into peripheral circulation.