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You Z, Yuan J, Wang Y, Sun Y, Ni A, Li Y, Ma H, Ma T, Chen J. Integrated transcriptomic analysis on chicken ovary reveals CYP21A1 affects follicle granulosa cell development and steroid hormone synthesis. Poult Sci 2024; 103:103589. [PMID: 38471223 PMCID: PMC11067781 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2024.103589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Egg production is an economically important trait in poultry breeding and production. Follicular development was regulated by several hormones released and genes expressed in the granulosa cells, impacting the egg production and fecundity of hens. However, the molecular functions of these candidate genes that modulate these processes remain largely unknown. In the present study, bioinformatics analyses were performed to identify the candidate genes related to egg production in the ovarian tissue of White Leghorns with high egg production and Beijing You chicken with low egg production during sexual maturity and peak laying periods. The ovarian granulosa cells were used to assess the function of CYP21A1 by transfecting with CYP21A1-specific small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) and overexpression plasmids. We identified 514 differentially expressed genes (|Log2(fold change) | >1, P <0.05) between the 2 chicken breeds in both laying periods. Among these genes, CYP21A1, which is involved in the steroid hormone biosynthesis pathway was consistently upregulated in White Leghorns. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) further suggested that CYP21A1 was a hub gene, which could positively respond to treatment with follicle stimulation hormone (FSH), affecting egg production. The interference of CYP21A1 significantly inhibited cell proliferation and promoted cell apoptosis. Overexpression of CYP21A1 promotes cell proliferation and inhibits cell apoptosis. Furthermore, the interference with CYP21A1 significantly downregulated the expression of STAR, CYP11A1, HSD3B1, and FSHR and also decreased the synthesis of progesterone (P4) and estradiol (E2) in granulosa cells. Overexpression of CYP21A1 increased the synthesis of P4 and estradiol E2 and the expression of steroid hormone synthesis-related genes in granulosa cells. Our findings provide new evidence for the biological role of CYP21A1 on granulosa cell proliferation, apoptosis, and steroid hormone synthesis, which lays the theoretical basis for improving egg production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhangjing You
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal (Poultry) Genetics Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, China; College of Life Sciences and Food Engineering, Hebei University of Engineering, Handan, 056038, Hebei, China
| | - Jingwei Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal (Poultry) Genetics Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Yuanmei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal (Poultry) Genetics Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, China; Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Technology, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, 271018 China
| | - Yanyan Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal (Poultry) Genetics Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Aixin Ni
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal (Poultry) Genetics Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Yunlei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal (Poultry) Genetics Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Hui Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal (Poultry) Genetics Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Tenghe Ma
- College of Life Sciences and Food Engineering, Hebei University of Engineering, Handan, 056038, Hebei, China
| | - Jilan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Biotech Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal (Poultry) Genetics Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, China.
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Hall GB, Shannon A, Hildenberger D, Brady K, Long JA. Vitrified turkey ovarian tissue cultured and assessed through gene expression patterns: A potential screening tool. Cryobiology 2024; 114:104837. [PMID: 38072182 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2023.104837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Biobanking of turkey ovarian tissue has the potential to play a crucial part in preserving female genetics. To date, ovarian tissue has only been vitrified using a standard protocol, with immediate analyses after warming, therefore, long-term cryoinjury is unknown. Long-term cryoinjury was investigated here by in-ovo culturing, fresh (non-vitrified), a purposefully suboptimal poor vitrification (PV), and the standard vitrified (StV) protocol. Assessments were performed via cellular morphological changes and mRNA gene expression differences, immediately (day 0) or after 2, 4, or 6 days of in-ovo culturing. On day 0, the mRNA levels of heat-shock protein A2 (HSPA2) were lowest in the fresh tissue, and increased 5-fold in the StV treatment, and 18-fold in the PV treatment. Whereas, by day 6, growth determining factor 9 (GDF9) mRNA levels within the fresh tissue were over 3-fold and 21-fold higher than StV and PV treatments, respectively. After 6 days of in-ovo culture the follicle density was highest in the fresh ovarian tissue (4701 ± 950 #/mm3), followed by the StV (1601 ± 300 #/mm3), with PV having the lowest density (172 ± 145 #/mm3). This shows that although the density of follicles was higher in StV versus PV, a considerable number (∼65 %) were lost compared to the fresh treatment. Additionally, the HSPA2 expression could be an early screening tool, whereas GDF9 expression could be a late screening tool, used to assess turkey ovarian tissue vitrification protocols. We conclude that the StV protocol should be further optimized to try and improve follicle numbers post-warming.
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Affiliation(s)
- George B Hall
- Animal Biosciences and Biotechnology Laboratory, Agricultural Research Service, US Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD, 20705, USA; USDA-ARS Research Participation Program, Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE), 1299 Bethel Valley Rd, Oak Ridge, TN, 37830, USA.
| | - Amy Shannon
- Animal Biosciences and Biotechnology Laboratory, Agricultural Research Service, US Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD, 20705, USA.
| | - Diane Hildenberger
- Animal Biosciences and Biotechnology Laboratory, Agricultural Research Service, US Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD, 20705, USA.
| | - Kristen Brady
- Animal Biosciences and Biotechnology Laboratory, Agricultural Research Service, US Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD, 20705, USA.
| | - Julie A Long
- Animal Biosciences and Biotechnology Laboratory, Agricultural Research Service, US Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD, 20705, USA.
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Liao Q, Huang H, Tang P, Liang J, Chen J, Mu C, Pan D, Lv F, Zhou L, Long J, Chen Q, Zeng X, Liu S, Huang D, Qiu X. Associations of prenatal exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances and fetal sex hormones in the Guangxi Zhuang Birth Cohort Study: Greater effect of long-chain PFAS. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 272:116054. [PMID: 38310819 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
Fetal sex hormone homeostasis disruption could lead to reproductive and developmental abnormalities. However, previous studies have reported inconsistent findings regarding the association of maternal per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) exposure with fetal sex hormone levels. A total of 277 mother-infant pairs from the Guangxi Zhuang Birth Cohort Study between 2015 and 2019 were selected. We quantified nine PFAS in maternal serum in early pregnancy, and detected three sex hormones, namely, estradiol (E2), progesterone (P4) and testosterone (TT), in cord blood. The generalized linear model (GLM) and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) model were used for single- and multiple-exposure analyses, respectively. In the GLM, there was no significant association between an individual PFAS and any hormone level or the E2/TT ratio, but a negative association between perfluorododecanoic acid (PFDoA) exposure and P4 levels in female infants was observed after stratification by sex. In the BKMR, a mixture of nine PFAS was positively associated with E2 levels and the E2/TT ratio, with the same main contributors, i.e., perfluoroundecanoic acid (PFUnA). And PFAS mixtures were not associated with P4 or TT levels. After stratification by infant sex, positive associations of PFAS mixtures with E2 levels and the E2/TT ratio were observed only in male infants, with the same main contributors, i.e., PFUnA. There was a positive association between PFAS mixtures and P4 levels in male infants, in which PFUnA was the main contributor; but a reverse association between PFAS mixtures and P4 levels in female infants, in which PFDoA was the main contributor. This study suggested that prenatal exposure to PFAS mixtures is associated with fetal sex hormones, and long-chain PFAS may play an important role in this association. Furthermore, sex differences in the association of maternal PFAS exposure with E2 and P4 levels need additional attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Liao
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Huishen Huang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Peng Tang
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Jun Liang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Jiehua Chen
- Department of Microbiology, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Changhui Mu
- Department of Sanitary Chemistry, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Dongxiang Pan
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Fangfang Lv
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Lihong Zhou
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Jinghua Long
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Qian Chen
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Xiaoyun Zeng
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, Guangxi, China; Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Guilin Medical University, Guilin 541001, Guangxi, China
| | - Shun Liu
- Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Dongping Huang
- Department of Microbiology, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, Guangxi, China
| | - Xiaoqiang Qiu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning 530021, Guangxi, China.
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Brady K, Krasnec K, Hanlon C, Long JA. Turkey hen sperm storage tubule transcriptome response to artificial insemination and the presence of semen. Front Physiol 2024; 14:1305168. [PMID: 38260096 PMCID: PMC10801083 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1305168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Sperm storage within the uterovaginal junction (UVJ) of avian species occurs in specialized structures termed sperm storage tubules (SSTs) and allows for prolonged storage of semen, though the molecular mechanisms involved in semen preservation are not well understood. Little work has been done examining how function of the SSTs is impacted by insemination and by semen present in the SSTs. Methods: Transcriptome analysis was performed on isolated SSTs from turkey hens receiving no insemination (control), sham-insemination, or semen-insemination at three timepoints (D1, D30, and D90 post-insemination). Bioinformatic and functional annotation analyses were performed using CLC Genomics Workbench, Database for Annotation, Visualization, and Integrated Discovery (DAVID), and Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA). Pairwise comparisons and k-medoids cluster analysis were utilized to decipher differential expression profiles in the treatment groups. Results: The SST transcriptome of the semen inseminated group exhibited the greatest differences within the group, with differences detectable for up to 90 days post insemination, while control and sham-inseminated groups were more similar. In the semen-inseminated samples, upregulation of pathways relating to classical and non-classical reproductive signaling, cytoskeletal remodeling, physiological parameters of the local UVJ environment, and cellular metabolism was observed. In the sham-inseminated samples, upregulation of immune pathways and non-reproductive endocrine hormones was observed. Discussion: This work provides insights into the molecular level changes of the SST in response to insemination as well as to the presence of semen. Results from this study may have direct implications on fertility rates as well as potential strategies for avian semen cryopreservation protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen Brady
- Animal Biosciences and Biotechnology Laboratory, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD, United States
| | - Katina Krasnec
- Mouse Genetics and Gene Modification Section, Comparative Medicine Branch, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, NIH, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Charlene Hanlon
- Department of Poultry Science, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, United States
| | - Julie A. Long
- Animal Biosciences and Biotechnology Laboratory, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD, United States
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Wang Y, Guo Z, Zhang C, Miao D, Mao X, Lu S, Yang H, Wang Z. Characterization of ovarian follicles, serum steroid hormone concentration and steroidogenic gene expression profiles in the developing ovarian follicles in White King pigeons. Poult Sci 2023; 102:102673. [PMID: 37120866 PMCID: PMC10173770 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2023.102673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Paired pigeons only lay 2 eggs in a laying period, which is closely related to ovarian follicle development, but this process is not well understood. In this study, 60 pairs of 12-mo-old White King pigeons were selected and serum and follicles were collected at 4 stages of laying interval (LI), including the first (LI1), the third (LI3), the fifth (LI5), and the seventh day (LI7). Morphological results showed that paired pigeons normally had 2 preovulatory follicles and the second-largest follicle (F2) developed from LI3 and had been selected in LI5. Prehierarchical follicles were coupled and hierarchical, which was in accordance with its clutch size. The P4 concentration increased gradually from LI1 to LI5, reaching a maximum of 30.67 ng/mL in LI5 and decreasing to 27.83 ng/mL in LI7 (P < 0.05). The levels of T in LI1 and LI5 were higher than LI3 and LI7 (P < 0.05), although there was no significant difference in E2 in LI (P > 0.05), but it stayed at high levels. In the TCs of the largest follicle (F1), HSD3B1 mRNA and HSD17B1 mRNA levels peaked in LI7. The expression pattern of CYP17A1 and CYP19A1 was similar, increasing from LI3 to LI5 and then decreasing. In the TCs of F2, the expressions of HSD3B1 and CYP17A1 had no significant difference between LI5 and LI7 (P > 0.05), while the expression pattern of HSD17B1 and CYP19A1 was the opposite. In TCs of SF1, HSD3B1 mRNA level peaked in LI3 while CYP19A1 mRNA levels peaked in LI7. The expression of CYP17A1 had a minor change (P > 0.05) and the expression pattern of HSD17B1 was similar to F1. It was concluded that the morphological characteristics of follicles during the LI for the first time, including the number and diameter of small follicles (SFs) and hierarchical follicles in pigeon and the concentrations of steroid hormones and expressions of steroidogenic genes in TCs of different follicles could explain the growth and selection of 2 preovulatory follicles. This study facilitates further research into the regulation of ovulation and egg production in pigeons.
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Brady K, Liu HC, Hicks J, Long JA, Porter TE. Global gene expression analysis of the turkey hen hypothalamo-pituitary-gonadal axis during the preovulatory hormonal surge. Poult Sci 2023; 102:102547. [PMID: 36878099 PMCID: PMC10006860 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2023.102547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The preovulatory hormonal surge (PS) consists of elevated circulating luteinizing hormone (LH) and progesterone levels and serves as the primary trigger for ovarian follicle ovulation. Increased LH and progesterone, produced by the pituitary and the granulosa layer of the largest ovarian follicle (F1), respectively, result from hypothalamic stimulation and steroid hormone feedback on the hypothalamo-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. The hypothalamus, pituitary, F1 granulosa, and granulosa layer of the fifth largest follicle (F5) were isolated from converter turkey hens outside and during the PS and subjected to RNA sequencing (n = 6 per tissue). Differentially expressed genes were subjected to functional annotation using DAVID and IPA. A total of 12, 250, 1235, and 1938 DEGs were identified in the hypothalamus, pituitary, F1 granulosa, and F5 granulosa respectively (q<0.05, |fold change|>1.5, FPKM>1). Gene Ontology (GO) analysis revealed key roles for metabolic processes, steroid hormone feedback, and hypoxia induced gene expression changes. Upstream analysis identified a total of 4, 42, 126, and 393 potential regulators of downstream gene expression in the hypothalamus, pituitary, F1G, and F5G respectively, with a total of 63 potential regulators exhibiting differential expression between samples collected outside and during the PS (|z-score|>2). The results from this study serve to increase the current knowledge base surrounding the regulation of the PS in turkey hens. Through GO analysis, downstream processes and functions associated with the PS were linked to identified DEGs, and through upstream analysis, potential regulators of DEGs were identified for further analysis. Linking upstream regulators to the downstream PS and ovulation events could allow for genetic selection or manipulation of ovulation frequencies in turkey hens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen Brady
- Animal Biosciences and Biotechnology Laboratory, BARC, ARS, USDA, Beltsville, MD 20705, United States.
| | - Hsiao-Ching Liu
- Department of Animal Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, United States
| | - Julie Hicks
- Department of Animal Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, United States
| | - Julie A Long
- Animal Biosciences and Biotechnology Laboratory, BARC, ARS, USDA, Beltsville, MD 20705, United States
| | - Tom E Porter
- Department of Animal and Avian Sciences, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, United States
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Sun J, Zhang P, Wang D, Zhu S, Ma X, Du Z, Zhang J, Yang S, Huang H, Jiang R, Tian Y, Li W, Kang X, Yan F, Sun G, Li D. Integrative analyses of the mRNA expression profile reveal the involvement of STC1 in chicken folliculogenesis. J Anim Sci 2023; 101:skad295. [PMID: 37656166 PMCID: PMC10503649 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skad295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Efficient ovarian follicle development, maturation, and ovulation are critical for egg production performance. Previous research has underscored the importance of messenger RNAs (mRNAs) in regulating development and folliculogenesis in chicken ovarians. However, the molecular mechanism is not fully understood, especially in the late period of the laying cycle. In the present study, ovarian tissues from 80-week-old Hy-Line Brown layers (three with high and three with low rates of egg laying) were collected for transcriptome sequencing. A total of 306 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in this study, at a false discovery rate (FDR)-corrected P-value < 0.05 and a log2|fold change| (log2|FC|) ≥1.5. Among these DEGs, stanniocalcin 1 (STC1) was mainly related to cellular processes, single-organism processes, biological regulation, metabolic processes, developmental processes, and reproductive processes. Then, we further investigated the regulation of STC1 during chicken follicle development and found that STC1 inhibited the proliferation and stimulated the apoptosis of follicular granulosa cells (GCs), and decreased the expression of progesterone (P4) and estradiol (E2). Collectively, these results suggest that STC1 plays an important role in chicken follicle development by decreasing GC proliferation and steroidogenesis and stimulating GC apoptosis. This study contributes to the understanding of the reproductive biology of laying hens in the late period of the laying cycle and further lays a foundation for the improvement of egg production in poultry breeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junwei Sun
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, China
- Henan Key Laboratory for Innovation and Utilization of Chicken Germplasm Resources, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Pengwei Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, China
- Henan Key Laboratory for Innovation and Utilization of Chicken Germplasm Resources, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Dongxue Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, China
- Henan Key Laboratory for Innovation and Utilization of Chicken Germplasm Resources, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Shuaipeng Zhu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, China
- Henan Key Laboratory for Innovation and Utilization of Chicken Germplasm Resources, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Xiangfei Ma
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, China
- Henan Key Laboratory for Innovation and Utilization of Chicken Germplasm Resources, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Zhenwei Du
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, China
- Henan Key Laboratory for Innovation and Utilization of Chicken Germplasm Resources, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Jiechang Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, China
- Henan Key Laboratory for Innovation and Utilization of Chicken Germplasm Resources, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Shuangyuan Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, China
- Henan Key Laboratory for Innovation and Utilization of Chicken Germplasm Resources, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Hetian Huang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, China
- Henan Key Laboratory for Innovation and Utilization of Chicken Germplasm Resources, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Ruirui Jiang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, China
- Henan Key Laboratory for Innovation and Utilization of Chicken Germplasm Resources, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Yadong Tian
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, China
- Henan Key Laboratory for Innovation and Utilization of Chicken Germplasm Resources, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Wenting Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, China
- The Shennong Laboratory, Zhengzhou 450002, China
| | - Xiangtao Kang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, China
- The Shennong Laboratory, Zhengzhou 450002, China
| | - Fengbin Yan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, China
- Henan Key Laboratory for Innovation and Utilization of Chicken Germplasm Resources, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Guirong Sun
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, China
- The Shennong Laboratory, Zhengzhou 450002, China
| | - Donghua Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, China
- Henan Key Laboratory for Innovation and Utilization of Chicken Germplasm Resources, Zhengzhou 450046, China
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Xin Q, Uyanga VA, Jiao H, Zhao J, Wang X, Li H, Zhou Y, Lin H. Insulin-like growth factor-1 is involved in the deteriorated performance of aged laying hens. J Anim Sci 2022; 100:skac286. [PMID: 36049215 PMCID: PMC9667965 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skac286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The underlying mechanism behind the deteriorated laying performance of aged laying hens remains unclear. In the present study, the laying performance and gene expression along the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonad axis were determined. A total of 300 healthy 90-wk-old ISA hens with similar body weights were classified into three groups according to their laying rate between 90 and 94 wk of age. The experimental groups were the low laying rate (<60%, LLR), high laying rate (>85%, HLR), and intermediate laying rate (60% < laying rate < 85%, MLR) hens. At the end of 94 wk of age, eight hens were randomly selected from each group for tissue collection. The gene expression of hormones and their receptors were determined in the hypothalamus, pituitary, and follicles. The results showed that the serum 17-β-estradiol had no significant difference among the three groups. However, the level of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1) in LLR hens was significantly decreased in the serum, small white follicles (SWF), and dominant follicles (DF, P < 0.05). Within the hypothalamus and small yellow follicles (SYF), the mRNA expression level of estrogen receptor was higher in the MLR group (P < 0.05). Compared with HLR hens, the steroid hormone-synthesis key gene, CYP19A1 was significantly decreased in the SWF of MLR-hens and DF of MLR- and LLR-hens (P < 0.05). The mRNA expression level of IGF1 receptor was higher in the hypothalamus, pituitary, SWF, large white follicles (LWF), SYF, and DF of LLR hens, compared to the HLR hens (P < 0.05). These results suggest that decreased IGF1 in serum and follicles was associated with the decreased egg production of aged laying hens. The present study provides novel insights into the endocrine changes in aged hens having different egg production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Xin
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, Shandong 271018, P. R. China
| | - Victoria Anthony Uyanga
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, Shandong 271018, P. R. China
| | - Hongchao Jiao
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, Shandong 271018, P. R. China
| | - Jingpeng Zhao
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, Shandong 271018, P. R. China
| | - Xiaojuan Wang
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, Shandong 271018, P. R. China
| | - Haifang Li
- College of Life Sciences, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, Shandong 271018, P. R. China
| | - Yunlei Zhou
- College of Chemistry and Material Science, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, Shandong 271018, P. R. China
| | - Hai Lin
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, Shandong 271018, P. R. China
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Scanes CG. Discontinuities in understanding follicular development, the ovulatory cycle and the oviposition cycles in the hen: Advances, opportunities, slow downs and complete stops. Front Physiol 2022; 13:1023528. [PMID: 36262257 PMCID: PMC9573971 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.1023528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
There has been considerable progress in understanding follicular development, the ovulatory cycle and the oviposition cycles in the hen. In particular, there have been tremendous advances in understanding follicular development and recruitment of follicles to the hierarchy of large yellow follicles. There is a need to continue to follow the earlier literature while employing present techniques. Early work allowed an understanding of the ovulation and oviposition cycles. Models for ovulation were developed. However, while these have no passed the test of time, there is no present model that fully accounts to the cycles. Earlier work employed ahemoral light cycles to examine ovulation and oviposition cycles. Recent work has demonstrated that clock genes are expressed in the ovary. The control of incubation by prolactin has been largely elucidated in turkeys. There is evidence that other endocrine glands influence female reproduction in birds including the adrenal cortex, thyroid and pineal. However, there is much that remains to be fully understood.
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10
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Brady K, Krasnec K, Long J. Transcriptome analysis of inseminated sperm storage tubules throughout the duration of fertility in the domestic turkey, Meleagris gallopavo. Poult Sci 2022; 101:101704. [PMID: 35139440 PMCID: PMC8844686 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2022.101704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Sperm storage tubules (SST) are specialized invaginations of the oviductal epithelium that permit avian species to store spermatozoa for extended periods of time, without compromising sperm fertilization capacity. The molecular and physiological mechanisms behind sperm storage tubule differentiation, sperm protection, and regression remain largely unknown, but most likely have potential implications for substantially improving hen fertility, sperm storage, and semen cryopreservation in commercial poultry species. RNA sequencing was performed on sperm storage tubules isolated from the epithelium of the uterovaginal junction (UVJ) from hens at d 1, 7, 30, 60, and 90 postinsemination (n = 4 per timepoint). Read mapping and differential expression analysis were performed using CLC Genomics Workbench. A total of 2,340 differentially expressed genes were subjected to pathway analysis through Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA). Through functional annotation of differentially expressed genes during early, peak, and late egg production, novel insights regarding the role of innate and acquired immune response to sperm, lipid synthesis and transfer, steroid hormone signalling, cytoskeletal reorganization, and regulation of ion homeostasis in SST were obtained. Additionally, potential pathways were identified that could be involved with suppressing sperm motility while sperm reside within the SST. Upstream analysis identified potential regulatory roles for 18 upstream regulators that could modulate sperm storage tubule function, including suppression of sperm motility. Understanding sperm storage tubule function throughout the laying cycle, especially with regards to sperm preservation may allow for the development of industry-based protocols for semen storage and cryopreservation that mimic the sperm preservation capabilities of SST and improve fertility.
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11
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Brady K, Liu HC, Hicks JA, Long JA, Porter TE. Transcriptome Analysis During Follicle Development in Turkey Hens With Low and High Egg Production. Front Genet 2021; 12:619196. [PMID: 33815464 PMCID: PMC8012691 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.619196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Low and high egg producing hens exhibit gene expression differences related to ovarian steroidogenesis. High egg producing hens display increased expression of genes involved in progesterone and estradiol production, in the granulosa layer of the largest follicle (F1G) and small white follicles (SWF), respectively, whereas low egg producing hens display increased expression of genes related to progesterone and androgen production in the granulosa (F5G) and theca interna layer (F5I) of the fifth largest follicle, respectively. Transcriptome analysis was performed on F1G, F5G, F5I, and SWF samples from low and high egg producing hens to identify novel regulators of ovarian steroidogenesis. In total, 12,221 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified between low and high egg producing hens across the four cell types examined. Pathway analysis implied differential regulation of the hypothalamo-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis, particularly thyroid hormone transporters and thyroid hormone receptors, and of estradiol signaling in low and high egg producing hens. The HPT axis showed up-regulation in high egg producing hens in less mature follicles but up-regulation in low egg producing hens in more mature follicles. Estradiol signaling exclusively exhibited up-regulation in high egg producing hens. Treatment of SWF cells from low and high egg producing hens with thyroid hormone in vitro decreased estradiol production in cells from high egg producing hens to the levels seen in cells from low egg producing hens, whereas thyroid hormone treatment did not impact estradiol production in cells from low egg producing hens. Transcriptome analysis of the major cell types involved in steroidogenesis inferred the involvement of the HPT axis and estradiol signaling in the regulation of differential steroid hormone production seen among hens with different egg production levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen Brady
- Department of Animal and Avian Sciences, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, United States.,Animal Biosciences and Biotechnology Laboratory, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center (BARC), Agricultural Research Service (ARS), United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Beltsville, MD, United States
| | - Hsiao-Ching Liu
- Department of Animal Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Julie A Hicks
- Department of Animal Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | - Julie A Long
- Animal Biosciences and Biotechnology Laboratory, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center (BARC), Agricultural Research Service (ARS), United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Beltsville, MD, United States
| | - Tom E Porter
- Department of Animal and Avian Sciences, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, United States
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12
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Characterization of hypothalamo-pituitary-thyroid axis gene expression in the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and ovarian follicles of turkey hens during the preovulatory surge and in hens with low and high egg production. Poult Sci 2021; 100:100928. [PMID: 33588341 PMCID: PMC7896151 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2020.12.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Dysregulation of the preovulatory surge (PS) leads to lowered egg production. The hypothalamo-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis has been shown to influence plasma progesterone levels and follicle ovulation. The presence of thyroid hormone receptors (THR) in the reproductive axis suggests possible effects of thyroid hormone. To further understand the potential role of thyroid hormone on the PS, HPT axis plasma hormone concentrations and gene expression were characterized surrounding the PS in average egg producing hens (AEPH), low egg producing hens (LEPH), and high egg producing hens (HEPH) (n = 3 hens/group). Data were analyzed using the mixed models procedure of SAS, with significance indicated at P < 0.05. Average egg producing hens and HEPH displayed lower levels of triiodothyronine (T3) and higher levels of thyroxine (T4) inside of the PS, whereas LEPH showed inverse T3 and T4 levels relative to the PS. Expression of mRNA for hypothalamic thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH), pituitary thyrotropin (TSHB), and the main thyroid hormone metabolism enzyme (DIO2) were downregulated during the PS in AEPH and HEPH. Low egg producing hens displayed higher expression of mRNA for hypothalamic TRH as well as pituitary TSHB and DIO2 compared with HEPH. Average egg producing hens expression of THR mRNAs was upregulated during the PS in the hypothalamus but downregulated in the pituitary. High egg producing hens showed decreased expression of THR mRNAs in both the hypothalamus and pituitary when compared with LEPH. In ovarian follicles, THR mRNAs were more prevalent in the thecal layer of the follicle wall compared with the granulosa layer, and expression tended to decrease with follicle maturity. Minimal differences in follicular THR expression were seen between LEPH and HEPH, indicating that THR expression is unlikely to be responsible for steroid hormone production differences occurring between LEPH and HEPH. Generally, downregulation of the HPT axis was seen during the PS in AEPH and HEPH, whereas upregulation of the HPT axis was seen in LEPH. Further studies will be required to clarify the role of the HPT axis in the regulation of ovulation and egg production rates in turkey hens.
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13
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Tan YG, Xu XL, Cao HY, Mao HG, Yin ZZ. RFamide-related peptides' gene expression, polymorphism, and their association with reproductive traits in chickens. Poult Sci 2021; 100:488-495. [PMID: 33518101 PMCID: PMC7858160 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2020.11.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
RFamide-related peptides (RFRP) are synthesized by the hypothalamus and have a regulatory role in gonad development. The goal of this study was to investigate the association between SNP of the RFRP gene and the reproductive traits and hormone levels of Zhenning yellow chickens. The mRNA expression levels were detected based on different tissues, ages, and genotypes. Eleven mutation sites were detected in the RFRP gene, 4 of which were significantly related to reproductive traits and hormone levels. Association analysis revealed that A276G was associated with egg production at 300 d of age (EP300) and amount of prehierarchical follicles (P < 0.05). G1396A was associated with egg weight at 300 d of age and luteinizing hormone (LH) and prolactin levels (P < 0.05). G1694A showed significant associations with fertilization rate and LH levels (P < 0.05), and A2659G was associated with EP300 (P < 0.05). The results of expression analysis showed that the RFRP mRNA expression levels in the hypothalamus were higher than those in other tissues (P < 0.01). The expression in immature individuals was higher than that in mature ones (P < 0.01). There were also differences in mRNA expression levels between different genotypes (P < 0.05). In summary, the results of this study might provide potential markers and a theoretical basis for the improvement of chicken reproductive traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y G Tan
- Animal Science College, Zhejiang University, Zijingang Campus, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - X L Xu
- Animal Science College, Zhejiang University, Zijingang Campus, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - H Y Cao
- Animal Science College, Zhejiang University, Zijingang Campus, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - H G Mao
- Animal Science College, Zhejiang University, Zijingang Campus, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Z Z Yin
- Animal Science College, Zhejiang University, Zijingang Campus, Hangzhou 310058, China.
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14
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Brady K, Liu HC, Hicks JA, Long JA, Porter TE. Transcriptome analysis of the hypothalamus and pituitary of turkey hens with low and high egg production. BMC Genomics 2020; 21:647. [PMID: 32957911 PMCID: PMC7507666 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-020-07075-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND High egg producing hens (HEPH) show increased hypothalamic and pituitary gene expression related to hypothalamo-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis stimulation as well as increased in vitro responsiveness to gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) stimulation in the pituitary when compared to low egg producing hens (LEPH). Transcriptome analysis was performed on hypothalamus and pituitary samples from LEPH and HEPH to identify novel regulators of HPG axis function. RESULTS In the hypothalamus and pituitary, 4644 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified between LEPH and HEPH, with 2021 genes up-regulated in LEPH and 2623 genes up-regulated in HEPH. In LEPH, up-regulated genes showed enrichment of the hypothalamo-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis. Beta-estradiol was identified as an upstream regulator regardless of tissue. When LEPH and HEPH samples were compared, beta-estradiol was activated in HEPH in 3 of the 4 comparisons, which correlated to the number of beta-estradiol target genes up-regulated in HEPH. In in vitro pituitary cell cultures from LEPH and HEPH, thyroid hormone pretreatment negatively impacted gonadotropin subunit mRNA levels in cells from both LEPH and HEPH, with the effect being more prominent in HEPH cells. Additionally, the effect of estradiol pretreatment on gonadotropin subunit mRNA levels in HEPH cells was negative, whereas estradiol pretreatment increased gonadotropin subunit mRNA levels in LEPH cells. CONCLUSIONS Up-regulation of the HPT axis in LEPH and upstream beta-estradiol activation in HEPH may play a role in regulating HPG axis function, and ultimately ovulation rates. Thyroid hormone and estradiol pretreatment impacted gonadotropin mRNA levels following GnRH stimulation, with the inhibitory effects of thyroid hormone more detrimental in HEPH and estradiol stimulatory effects more prominent in LEPH. Responsiveness to thyroid hormone and estradiol may be due to desensitization to thyroid hormone and estradiol in LEPH and HEPH, respectively, due to up-regulation of the HPT axis in LEPH and of the HPG axis in HEPH. Further studies will be necessary to identify possible target gene desensitization mechanisms and elicit the regulatory role of the HPT axis and beta-estradiol on ovulation rates in turkey hens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen Brady
- Department of Animal and Avian Sciences, University of Maryland, 1413 Animal Sciences Building (#142), 8127 Regents Drive, College Park, MD, 20742, USA
- Animal Biosciences and Biotechnology Laboratory, BARC, ARS, USDA, Beltsville, MD, 20705, USA
| | - Hsiao-Ching Liu
- Department of Animal Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
| | - Julie A Hicks
- Department of Animal Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
| | - Julie A Long
- Animal Biosciences and Biotechnology Laboratory, BARC, ARS, USDA, Beltsville, MD, 20705, USA
| | - Tom E Porter
- Department of Animal and Avian Sciences, University of Maryland, 1413 Animal Sciences Building (#142), 8127 Regents Drive, College Park, MD, 20742, USA.
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15
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Brady K, Long JA, Liu HC, Porter TE. Differences in invitro responses of the hypothalamo-pituitary-gonadal hormonal axis between low- and high-egg-producing turkey hens. Poult Sci 2020; 99:6221-6232. [PMID: 33142540 PMCID: PMC7647924 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2020.08.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Low-egg-producing hens (LEPH) ovulate less frequently than high-egg-producing hens (HEPH) and exhibit differences in mRNA levels for components of the hypothalamo–pituitary–gonadal (HPG) axis, suggesting differential responsiveness to trophic stimulation. Ovulation frequency is governed by the production of the pituitary gonadotropins and feedback of the ovarian follicle steroid hormones, which are regulated by HPG axis stimulation and inhibition at the hypothalamic level. The pituitary and follicle cells from LEPH and HEPH were subjected to in vitro hormonal treatments to stimulate or inhibit the HPG axis, followed by expression analysis of mRNA levels for HPG axis genes and radioimmunoassays for steroid hormone production. Statistical analysis was performed using the mixed models procedure of SAS. The pituitary cells from HEPH showed upregulation of genes associated with ovulation stimulation, whereas cells from LEPH showed upregulation of genes associated with inhibition of ovulation. High-egg-producing hens’ follicle cells displayed a higher sensitivity and responsiveness to gonadotropin treatment. Level of egg production impacted ovulation-related gene expression in the pituitary cells as well as steroid hormone production in the follicle cells, with HEPH displaying a greater positive response to stimulation. These findings indicate that differences in egg production among turkey hens likely involve differential responsiveness of the cells within the HPG axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen Brady
- Department of Animal and Avian Sciences, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, United States; Animal Biosciences and Biotechnology Laboratory, BARC, ARS, USDA, Beltsville, MD 20705, United States
| | - Julie A Long
- Animal Biosciences and Biotechnology Laboratory, BARC, ARS, USDA, Beltsville, MD 20705, United States
| | - Hsiao-Ching Liu
- Department of Animal Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, United States
| | - Tom E Porter
- Department of Animal and Avian Sciences, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, United States.
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16
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Huo S, Li Y, Guo Y, Zhang S, Li P, Gao P. Improving effects of Epimedium flavonoids on the selected reproductive features in layer hens after forced molting. Poult Sci 2020; 99:2757-2765. [PMID: 32359613 PMCID: PMC7597462 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2019.12.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2019] [Revised: 12/10/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
In the present study, for the purpose of investigating the effects of the total flavonoids of Epimedium (TFE) in regard to preventing the development of atrophied oviducts and follicles induced by forced molting, 300-day-old Hy-Line Brown layer hens were divided into 3 study groups as follows: the control (CON) group was the normal group, without forced molting and TFE treatments; the TFE1 group was treated by adding a 1‰ TFE treatment after forced molting; and the TFE0 group was not treated by TFE after forced molting. During this study's experimental process, the egg production rates were recorded each day. In addition, the hens were randomly chosen to be weighed every 4 D and also randomly selected to be sacrificed every 7 D. Then, sample tissues of albumen-secreting part and uterus from the fallopian tube of the layer hens were collected for PCR and hematoxylin-eosin staining tests. The results showed that the body weights, number of follicles, and weights and sizes of the fallopian tube for the TFE1 and TFE0 groups were significantly reduced when compared with those of the control group on the 15th D of the experiment. Furthermore, at the end of study, it was found that the egg production rates, weights of the fallopian tube, and ovarian follicles of TFE1 had recovered to normal levels. At the same time, the serum estrogen and the expressions of the progesterone receptor and estrogen receptor mRNA in fallopian tube were higher than those observed for the TFE0 group. The results of this study provided valuable evidence that TFE could improve the development of atrophied oviducts and increase the egg laying rates, thereby making it a potential multicomponent natural drug for egg production in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuying Huo
- The College of Veterinary Medicine, Agricultural University of Hebei, Baoding 071001, China.
| | - Yurong Li
- The College of Veterinary Medicine, Agricultural University of Hebei, Baoding 071001, China
| | - Yu Guo
- The College of Veterinary Medicine, Agricultural University of Hebei, Baoding 071001, China
| | - Shuang Zhang
- The College of Veterinary Medicine, Agricultural University of Hebei, Baoding 071001, China
| | - Peishan Li
- Animal Science and Technology College, The Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Peipei Gao
- The College of Veterinary Medicine, Agricultural University of Hebei, Baoding 071001, China
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17
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Characterization of the hypothalamo-pituitary-gonadal axis in low and high egg producing turkey hens. Poult Sci 2020; 99:1163-1173. [PMID: 32029148 PMCID: PMC7587793 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2019.12.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Variation in egg production exists in commercial turkey hens, with low egg producing hens (LEPH) costing more per egg produced than high egg producing hens (HEPH). Egg production correlates with ovulation frequency, which is governed by the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. Ovulation is stimulated by a preovulatory surge (PS) of progesterone and luteinizing hormone, triggered by gonadotropin releasing hormone release and inhibited by gonadotropin inhibiting hormone. Differences between LEPH and HEPH were characterized by determining HPG axis plasma hormone profiles and mRNA levels for key genes, both outside and inside of the PS (n = 3 per group). Data were analyzed with a 2-way ANOVA using the mixed models procedure of SAS. In the HPG axis, plasma progesterone levels were not affected by egg production level but were elevated during the PS. In contrast, plasma estradiol levels were higher in HEPH than in LEPH but were not associated with the PS. LEPH exhibited decreased gene expression associated with ovulation stimulation and increased gene expression associated with ovulation inhibition in the hypothalamus and pituitary. In ovarian follicle cells, LEPH displayed decreased gene expression associated with progesterone, androgen, and estradiol production in the F1 follicle granulosa cells, F5 theca interna cells, and small white follicle cells, respectively. Different degrees of stimulation and inhibition within all tissues of the HPG axis were noted between LEPH and HEPH turkey hens, with HEPH showing higher expression of genes related to ovulation and steroidogenesis.
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