Analysis of liver transcriptome data to identify the genes affecting lipid metabolism during the embryonic and hatching periods in ROSS breeder broilers

Upon transfer of incubating eggs from the setter stage to the hatcher, the metabolism of the energy source for the rapid metabolism also changes rapidly when the adipose tissue may play an important part. To comprehend the molecular processes underlying the alterations in fat metabolism, identification of genes, processes, and pathways related to fat metabolism is imperative. This research aimed to identify the important genes in lipid metabolism during the embryonic and hatching periods in Ross breeder broilers. The embryonic transcriptomics data were extracted from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database with accession number GSE109451 and analyzed using Gene Expression Omnibus 2R (GEO2R). Common genes between the setter and hatcher periods were identified with Venn web tool. The Database for Annotation, Visualization, and Integrated Discovery (DAVID) tool was used to identify the biological processes and pathways. The protein-protein network was drawn using the String software and analyzed with the Cytoscape software. Overall, 580 genes in the setter period and 711 genes in the hatcher period showed differential expressions, and 205 common genes were identified between these periods. The most important pathways and processes related to lipid metabolism with common genes between the setter and hatcher periods were the cell cycle, retinol metabolic process, activation of protein kinase activity, nucleic acid metabolism, and metabolic pathways. The key genes associated with lipid metabolism included PBK, CDK1, CCNB2, AURKA. The risks associated with excess fat tissue in chickens present a dual challenge that encompasses animal health and product quality. Targeted research in this area holds the potential to yield effective interventions, ultimately contributing to the sustainability and profitability of poultry production. Enhanced understanding and control of fat metabolism are essential for fostering a healthier and more productive poultry industry.