Phenotypic and genotypic traits governing adaptive capacity of indigenous Salem Black goats subjected to protein energy alterations in the diet

Abstract

A study was conducted to assess the different proportions of protein energy ratio on the adaptive capabilities of Salem Black goats based on changes in both phenotypic and selective genotypic traits. Forty adult Salem Black does (average body weight (BW) 16.0 kg) were divided into five groups, GI (n = 8; ICAR recommended; crude protein (CP) 80 g and total digestible nutrients (TDN) 358 g); GII (n = 8; 50 % Low Protein and Normal Energy; CP 40 g and TDN- 358 g); GIII (n = 8; Normal Protein and 50 % Low Energy; CP 80 g and TDN 179 g), GIV (n = 8; 50 % Low Protein and 50 % Low Energy; CP 40 g and TDN 179 g) and GV (n = 8; 70 % Low Protein and 70 % Low Energy; CP 24 g and TDN 107 g). The results indicated that the alteration in protein energy composition of the diet did not influence any of the physiological and endocrine variables. However, the alteration in the feed composition changed the molecular adaptation process by inducing changes (P < 0.05) in the expression pattern of selective (heat shock protein) HSPs genes. Further, it was observed that the gene expression patterns were sensitive to energy component of the diet rather than protein content. This was evident from the fact that when energy content was not compromised the Salem black goat was able to mount appropriate stress response. Thus, the study signified the importance of ensuring optimum nutrient requirement to cope with the existing environmental condition. In addition, the study also identified heat shock factor 1 (HSF1), heat shock factor binding protein 1 (HSBP1), HSP27, HSP60, HSP70, HSP90 and HSP110 could serve as reliable biomarkers for nutritional stress in Salem Black goat.