Breeding Improvement Research Articles

The FLOWERING LOCUS T-like genes from patchouli (Pogostemon cablin) antagonistically regulate flowering time.

Flowering is crucial for the reproductive success of plants. Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin), a widely utilized medicinal and aromatic plant from the Lamiaceae family, exhibits rare flowering and fails to produce seeds, thereby posing a challenge for plant evolution and breeding improvement. However, the mechanism underlying flowering in patchouli has not been investigated. FLOWERING LOCUS T (FT) serves as a central integrator of flowering signals. Here, we identified 13 patchouli FT-like genes (PatFTs). In patchouli leaves, PatFT10-13 displayed continuous expression, with a decline noted at the flowering stage, while PatFT1-3 were activated exclusively at the flowering stage, and PatFT4-9 were hardly expressed. Overexpression of PatFT2 in Arabidopsis induced early flowering, while overexpression of PatFT10-13 resulted in delayed flowering. These results suggested that PatFT1-3, differing by one to two unique residues in the non-conserved region, might function as floral inducers, while PatFT10-13 likely act as floral repressors. Both PatFT2 and PatFT11 interacted with patchouli FD-like proteins. Transient expression of PatFT11 in protoplasts reduced the ability of PatFT2 to activate downstream flowering genes, suggesting a competitive antagonism between these proteins for shared interactors. Amino acid swapping analysis indicated that specific conserved residues was responsible for the functional switch in PatFTs. Furthermore, we revealed that the evolution of antagonistic FT-like modules might represent a common strategy for Lamiaceae plants to fine-tune flowering time. In summary, these findings provide new insights into the expansion and functional diversity of FT-like genes in patchouli.

8000 Years of morphometric evolution of sheep, goat and pig in the northwestern Mediterranean basin

Understanding how domestic mammal species evolved through time provides insight into the artificial and natural selection processes that have shaped the diversity of domestic animals. The focus of this article is the morphometric evolution of sheep, goats and suids in the Northwestern Mediterranean Basin over the last 8000 years, employing a 2D geometric morphometrics protocol applied to the third lower molars. Using a comprehensive dataset comprising 2798 archaeological specimens from 176 sites in Southern France and Spanish Catalonia, along with 1303 modern specimens, we aim to identify and contrast the environmental and anthropic factors influencing species evolution linked to past husbandry practices. Each of these three taxa follows its own evolutionary trajectory, exhibiting variations over time and across different regions. Notably, reduction in the centroid size of sheep molars between the Neolithic and the early Iron Age could potentially be associated with an increased demand for meat and/or shifts in male-to-female ratios. A clear geographical structuring of caprines between the Neolithic and Antiquity is observed, likely influenced by a combination of factors including artificial selection, environmental changes and socio-economic dynamics, as corroborated by previous studies. Moreover, a reduction in molar size during the Middle Ages is observed across all three species, possibly linked to extensive agropastoral practices. Furthermore, divergent processes of breed improvement and standardization are identified in pigs and caprines. This study highlights the complex nature of morphological variations in domestic species, emphasising the multifactorial influences involved. It underscores the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in understanding the factors contributing to morphological transformations over time.

Multiple omics analysis reveals the regulation of SIRT4 on lipid deposition and metabolism during the differentiation of bovine preadipocytes.

The differentiation and lipid metabolism of preadipocytes are crucial processes in IMF deposition. Studies have demonstrated that SIRT4 plays essential roles in energy metabolism and redox homeostasis, with its expression being coordinately regulated by multiple transcription factors associated with energy and lipid metabolism. In this study, the findings of multiple omics analysis reveal that SIRT4 significantly up-regulates the expression of genes involved in adipogenesis and enhances the differentiation and lipid deposition of bovine preadipocytes. Furthermore, SIRT4 profoundly influences the expression pattern of metabolites by increasing the abundance of substances involved in lipid synthesis while decreasing those that promote lipid oxidative decomposition. Additionally, SIRT4 broadly up-regulates the expression levels of various lipid classes, including glycerolipids, glycerophospholipids, sphingolipids, and sterol lipids. These findings not only provide a theoretical basis for molecular breeding and genetic improvement in beef cattle, but also offer potential therapeutic approaches for energy homeostasis disorders and obesity.

Somatic Hybrids and Cybrids: Innovations in Vegetable Improvement

Somatic hybridization through protoplast fusion is indeed a promising method for producing asymmetrical and unbalanced polyploid somatic hybrids in various plant species. This technique involves merging protoplasts from different plant species to create hybrids that possess desirable traits for both scion and rootstock improvements. By circumventing the limitations of sexual hybridization, such as male/female sterility and sexual incompatibility, somatic hybridization enables the incorporation of beneficial genes from closely related or even distantly related species. The success of somatic hybridization in horticulture is evident in various crops such as citrus, potato, brinjal (eggplant), tomato, mango, avocado, banana, strawberry, pear, and cherry. It facilitates the transfer of numerous uncloned genes that confer resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses, thereby enhancing crop resilience and productivity. Unlike transgenic technology, which is often subject to regulatory constraints, somatic hybridization allows for the exchange of genetic material without the same legal formalities. Despite its potential benefits, somatic hybridization faces challenges and constraints compared to sexual hybridization. These include technical difficulties in protoplast isolation and fusion, as well as limitations in generating fertile hybrids and maintaining genome stability. However, advancements in genomic technologies provide optimism for overcoming these challenges. Improved understanding of plant genomes enables more precise manipulation and selection of desired traits through somatic hybridization. In conclusion, somatic hybridization is a crucial tool in modern plant breeding and crop improvement efforts. It expands the gene pool available for breeding programs by incorporating genetic variability from diverse sources, thus offering new opportunities to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability. As research and technology continue to advance, somatic hybridization holds promise for addressing current and future challenges in global agriculture.

A high-quality chromosome-scale genome assembly of the Cherokee rose (Rosa laevigata)

Rosa laevigata is an excellent rose germplasm, highly resistant to aphid, and immune to both rose black spot and powdery mildew disease. It is also a well-known edible plant with a long history of medicinal use in China, having the effects of improving kidney function, inhibiting arteriosclerosis, and reducing inflammation. In this study, we assembled a high-quality chromosome-scale genome for R. laevigata by combining Illumina, PacBio, and Hi-C data, which has a length of approximately 494.2 Mb with a scaffold N50 of 68.6 Mb. A total of 493.2 Mb (99.8%) of the draft genome sequences were anchored on seven pseudochromosomes and two gapless pseudochromosomes were included in the final genome assembly. A total of 37,117 protein-coding genes were predicted, 34,047 of which were functionally annotated. Repeat annotation revealed 659,558 (285.6 Mb) repeat elements, accounting for 57.8% of the genome. The chromosome-scale genome provides valuable information to facilitate comparative genomic analysis of rose family and will accelerate genome-guided breeding and germplasm improvement of both R. laevigata itself and modern roses.

Bta-miR-484 Inhibits Bovine Intramuscular Adipogenesis by Regulating Mitotic Clonal Expansion via the MAP3K9/JNK/CCND1 Axis.

Intramuscular fat (IMF) content is a critical indicator of the beef nutritional value and flavor. In this study, we focused on bta-miR-484, a microRNA that is differentially expressed during the adipogenic differentiation of bovine intramuscular adipocytes and is negatively correlated with the IMF content across different cattle breeds. Our findings demonstrate that bta-miR-484 inhibits adipogenic differentiation without altering the fatty acid composition of bovine intramuscular adipocytes. miRNA pull-down and dual-luciferase reporter assays confirmed that MAP3K9 is a target gene of bta-miR-484. Furthermore, bta-miR-484 suppresses the JNK signaling pathway by targeting MAP3K9, leading to decreased CCND1 expression, which impedes the mitotic clonal expansion (MCE) process and inhibits intramuscular adipocyte differentiation. In summary, this study uncovers a novel mechanism by which bta-miR-484 regulates bovine IMF content and provides the first exploration of MCE during intramuscular adipocyte adipogenic differentiation. These findings offer valuable theoretical insights into beef cattle breeding and molecular improvements.

Selective Breeding for Genetic Improvement of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus Linnaeus, 1758) in Uganda: Current Status, Challenges, and Future Perspectives.

Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) aquaculture continues to significantly contribute to the growth of the aquaculture sector in Uganda. However, its production is beset by erratic and unreliable seed supply. Also, most hatcheries practice inbreeding of broodstock, resulting in inferior seed characterized by low growth rates. As such, a selective breeding program is necessary to readily avail fast-growing seed that respond to farmers' needs. The present review consolidates available information on developing a Nile tilapia breeding program in Uganda. The article discusses the significance of genetic improvement, drawing lessons from successful Nile tilapia selective breeding programs in other countries. From a literature review, no systematic Nile tilapia selective breeding program was traceable in Uganda. Scanty information on the selective breeding efforts of the species was available, with little evidence of selection for improved performance. Overall, the national capacity for aquaculture research and development, including fish breeding and strain improvement, was weak and poorly funded. The review recommends purposive support for developing a systematic strain improvement breeding program, which will be a source of improved broodstock and seed for hatcheries and farmers, respectively. The program would guide the formulation of standard operating procedures for quality seed production towards ensuring sustainable aquaculture growth in Uganda.

Functional Characterization of OsCSN1 in the Agronomic Trait Control of Rice Seedlings Under Far-Red Light.

The COP9 signalosome (CSN) is a highly conserved multi-subunit protein complex, with CSN1 being its largest and most conserved subunit. The N-terminal function of CSN1 plays a pivotal and intricate role in plant photomorphogenesis and seedling development. Moreover, CSN is essential for far-red light-mediated photomorphogenesis in seedlings, but the function of OsCSN1 in seedling growth and development under far-red light conditions has not been determined. This study investigates the function of OsCSN1 under far-red light through phenotypic analysis of wild type and OsCSN1 mutant seedlings. Additionally, the effect of the N-terminal region of OsCSN1 on rice seedling growth and development was examined. The addition of exogenous hormone gibberellin (GA3) and gibberellin synthesis inhibitor paclobutrazol (PAC) resulted in notable changes in phenotypes and the expression of key proteins, including CUL4 and SLR1. The findings indicate that OsCSN1 functions as a positive regulator of plant height under far-red light and inhibits root elongation. Under far-red light, OsCSN1 integrates into the COP9 complex and regulates the nuclear localization of COP1. Through its interaction with CUL4 in the CULLIN-RING family, OsCSN1 facilitates the ubiquitin-mediated degradation of SLR1, thereby influencing the growth of rice seedlings. The regulatory function of OsCSN1 in seedling growth and development under far-red light predominantly relies on the 32 amino acids of its N-terminal region. The results of this study can provide new ideas for rice breeding and genetic improvement. Based on the study of key regulatory factors such as OsCSN1, new varieties that can make better use of far-red light signals can be cultivated to enhance crop adaptability and productivity.

Research Note: A low-density SNP genotyping panel for Chinese native chickens

The efficiency of molecular breeding largely depends on the cost of genotyping, which plays an important role in breeding and population genetic studies. Compared to pig, cattle, and sheep, poultry has a small size genome, and lower individual value. Developing a relatively low-density genotyping panel is needed to decrease the genotyping cost for poultries. In the present study, we developed a chicken 11 K single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotyping panel for breeding and genetic analysis using genotyping by targeted sequencing (GBTS). The panel design was based on whole genome sequencing data from 7 local breeds and a commercial breed. In total 11,200 SNPs were included in the final chip. Population analyses of the eight breeds showed high SNP call rates and minor allele frequencies (MAF), enabling clear differentiation between populations. The families within population can also be identified. Additionally, the 11K panel was applied to a genomic prediction of Wenshang Barred chickens, the predictive ability and prediction accuracy between the WGS and chip dataset non-significantly differed. Therefore, the newly developed chicken low-density SNP is efficient, cost-effective, and well-suited for application in local Chinese chickens, which can accelerate chicken breeding improvements and enhance conservation efforts.

Phaneroptic characteristics and morphometrics of Tukong indigenous chicken in West Kalimantan, Indonesia

Tukong is one of the indigenous chicken breed from Indonesia, which exhibits an abnormality in their tail development, known as rumpless chicken. Despite its potential role for the local community, information regarding this unique breed’s phenotypic and genetic characteristics is scarce. The present study aimed to characterise 205 (53 roosters and 152 hens) Tukong indigenous chickens (>8 months old) based on 7 phaneroptic characteristics and 10 morphometrics traits. The results showed that the roosters predominant plumage colour of the neck, body, and back were red, black, and red, respectively, while those for the hens were all black. Most roosters and hens had yellow beak, red comb, pea comb, red earlobe, orange eye, yellow shank, and white skin. Variations were also found in morphometrics traits. Diversity phaneroptic characteristics and morphometrics observed in Tukong chicken for evaluations to identify resources for effective breed improvement and conservation strategies of indigenous chickens in Indonesia.

Genome-Wide Scans for Selection Signatures in Ningxia Angus Cattle Reveal Genetic Variants Associated with Economic and Adaptive Traits

The genetic improvement of beef cattle breeds is crucial for the advancement of the beef cattle industry. Whole-genome resequencing technology has been widely applied in genetic breeding as well as research on selection signatures in beef cattle. In this study, 20× whole-genome resequencing was performed on 282 Angus cattle from the Ningxia region, and a high-quality dataset encompassing extensive genomic variations across the entire genome was constructed. The iHS test identified 495 selection signal regions, which included pregnancy-associated glycoprotein (PAG) family genes and immune-related genes such as UL16-binding protein 21 (ULBP21), CD1b molecule (CD1B), and tumor necrosis factor ligand superfamily member 11 (TNFSF11). A quantitative trait locus (QTL) enrichment analysis revealed that several economic traits, including longissimus muscle area, marbling score, carcass weight, average daily gain, and milk yield, were significantly enriched in cattle with these selection signatures. Although the enrichment of QTLs for health traits was low, immune-related genes may indirectly contribute to improvements in production performance. These findings show the genetic basis of economic and adaptive traits in Ningxia Angus cattle, providing a theoretical foundation and guidance for further genetic improvement and breeding strategies.

Genetic Diversity and Evaluation of Agro-Morphological Traits in Lettuce Core Collection.

Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) is a globally significant leafy vegetable, valued for both its economic and nutritional contributions. The efficient conservation and use of the lettuce germplasm are crucial for breeding and genetic improvement. This study examined the genetic diversity and population structure of a core collection of the lettuce germplasm using genotyping by sequencing (GBS). A total of 7136 high-quality single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified across nine chromosomes. Population analysis through Bayesian clustering and discriminant analysis of principal components (DAPC) revealed three distinct genetic clusters. Cluster 2 exhibited the greatest genetic diversity (He = 0.29, I = 0.44), while Cluster 3 had high levels of inbreeding (F = 0.79). Agro-morphological trait evaluation further identified significant differences in leaf length, plant weight, and head height across clusters. These findings provide valuable insights into the genetic and phenotypic diversity of lettuce, facilitating the development of more robust breeding programs. Additionally, the core collection established in this study offers a representative subset of the lettuce germplasm for future genomic research and conservation efforts.

Somatic Embryogenesis from the Leaf-Derived Calli of In Vitro Shoot-Regenerated Plantlets of Rosa hybrida 'Carola'.

Roses are one of the most important flowers applied to landscape, cut flowers, fragrance and food industries widely. As an effective method for plant reproduction, the regeneration via somatic embryos is the most promising method for breed improvement and genetic transformation of woody plants. However, lower somatic embryogenesis (SE) induction rates and genotypic constraints impede progress in genetic transformation in rose. This study describes a plant regeneration system for the famous red cut flower cultivar Rosa hybrida 'Carola'. The stems without petioles cultured on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with 1.0 mg·L-1 6-benzylaminopurine (6-BA), 0.05 mg·L-1 a-naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) and 30 g·L-1 sucrose showed the maximum proliferation coefficient of shoots with 3.41 for the micropropagation system. We evaluated the effects of different plant growth regulators (PGRs) on the induction, proliferation and conversion of somatic embryos. The induction rate of calli reached 100% on MS medium supplemented with 2.0 g·L-1 NAA and 30 g·L-1 glucose. The highest induction rate of somatic embryos achieved a frequency of 13.33% on MS medium supplemented with 2.0 mg·L-1 zeatin (ZT), 0.1 mg·L-1 NAA and 30 g·L-1 glucose. The most suitable carbohydrate with 60 g·L-1 glucose resulted in a proliferation rate of somatic embryos (4.02) on MS medium containing 1.5 mg·L-1 ZT, 0.2 mg·L-1 NAA and 0.1 mg·L-1 gibberellic acid (GA3). The highest somatic embryos germination rate (43.33%) was obtained from the MS medium supplemented with 1.0 mg·L-1 6-BA, 0.01 mg·L-1 IBA and 30 g·L-1 glucose. Finally, the germinated somatic embryos successfully rooted on 1/2 MS medium containing 1.0 mg·L-1 NAA, 30 g·L-1 sucrose, and the vigorous plantlets were obtained after hardening-off culture. This study provided a stable and efficient protocol for plant regeneration via somatic embryos in R. hybrida 'Carola', which will be beneficial to the further theoretical study and genetic improvement in roses.

Genome-Wide Structural Variation Analysis and Breed Comparison of Local Domestic Ducks in Shandong Province, China.

Structural variations in the duck genome significantly impact the environmental adaptability and phenotypic diversity of duck populations. Characterizing these SVs in local domestic duck breeds from Shandong province offers valuable insights for breed selection and the development of new breeds. This study aimed to profile the genomic SVs in three local duck breeds (Matahu duck, Weishan partridge duck, and Wendeng black duck) and explore their differential distributions. A total of 21,673 SVs were detected using LUMPY (v0.2.13) and DELLY (v1.0.3) software, with 46% located in intergenic regions, 33% in intronic regions, and frameshift deletions being the most prevalent in exonic regions (3%). SVs distribution showed a decreasing trend with shorter chromosome lengths. Population structure analysis revealed distinct genetic profiles, with Matahu and Weishan partridge ducks showing closer affinities and the Wendeng black duck having a more homogeneous genetic background, likely due to geographic isolation. Functional annotation identified genes related to nervous system development, mitosis, spindle assembly, and energy metabolism. Notable genes included PLXNA4, NRP2, SEMA3A, PTEN, MYBL2, ADK, and COX4I1. Additionally, genes such as PRKG1, GABRA2, and FSHR were linked to energy metabolism and reproductive activity. The study provides a comprehensive analysis of SVs, revealing significant genetic differentiation and identifying genes associated with economically important traits, offering valuable resources for the genetic improvement and breeding of local duck breeds.

Morphometric Study of Local Algerian Cattle Breeds and Prediction of Carcass Weight from Linear Body Measurements: Case of Setifien and Guelmoise Breeds

Background: In zootechnics, the utilization of local breeds adapted to harsh environmental conditions is a practical strategy for improving performance, particularly in breeding and animal improvement projects. This morphometric study of local Algerian cattle breeds highlights the main characteristics of the two breeds studied. Methods: The study focused on 60 male cattle, including 30 Setifien and 30 Guelmoise breeds, aged between 24 and 36 months. For each subject, nine biometric measurements were taken prior to slaughter: wither height (WH), thoracic circumference (TC), abdominal circumference (AC), scapulo-Ischial length (SIL), head length (HL), bizygomatic width (BIW), hip width (HIW), cannon circumference (CC) and cannon length (CL). Post-slaughter, the carcass weight (CW) of each animal was also recorded. Data analysis included univariate, bivariate and multivariate statistical methods. Result: The morpho-biometric comparison between the two studied breeds revealed that the Setifien breed has higher average values for all parameters compared to the Guelmoise breed. The Guelmoise breed is smaller in size (WH=113 cm), while the Setifien breed is larger (WH=121 cm), exhibiting values higher than those of African rustic breeds. Strong correlations were observed between carcass weight and most parameters, supporting the use of linear regression equations to estimate carcass weight from biometric measurements.

Comparative Whole-Genome Analysis of Production Traits and Genetic Structure in Baiyu and Chuanzhong Black Goats.

Natural selection and artificial breeding are crucial methods for developing new animal groups. The Baiyu black goats and Chuanzhong black goats are indigenous goat breeds from distinct ecological regions in Sichuan Province, with dramatically different growth and reproductivity. This study aimed to systematically elucidate the differences in production performance and genetic traits between Baiyu black goats and Chuanzhong black goats. We quantified growth and reproductive attributes for both breeds. Furthermore, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of genetic diversity, population structure, and selection signatures using whole-genome resequencing data. This dataset included 30 individuals from the Baiyu black goat breed, 41 from the Chuanzhong black goat breed, and an additional 59 individuals representing Chengdu grey goats, Tibetan cashmere goats, and Jianchang black goats, totaling 130 individuals across five goat breeds. The comparative analysis of production performance revealed that the weight and body size of Chuanzhong black goats were significantly higher than those of Baiyu black goats (p < 0.01). At the same time, the average kidding rate and kid-weaning survival rate of Chuanzhong black goats were also notably superior to those of Baiyu black goats (p < 0.01). The Baiyu black goats exhibited a more abundant genetic diversity and distinct genetic differences compared to the Chuanzhong black goat, according to an analysis grounded on genomic variation. The Baiyu black goats are more closely related to Tibetan cashmere goats, whereas Chuanzhong black goats share a closer genetic relationship with Chengdu grey goats. Additionally, we employed the π, Fst, and XP-EHH methodologies to identify genes related to immunity (TRIM10, TRIM15, TRIM26, and TRIM5), neurodevelopment (FOXD4L1, PCDHB14, PCDHB4, PCDHB5, PCDHB6, and PCDHB7), reproduction (BTNL2 and GABBR1), body size (NCAPG, IBSP, and MKNK1), and meat quality traits (SUCLG2 and PGM5). These results provide a theoretical basis for further resource conservation and breeding improvement of the Baiyu black goat and Chuanzhong black goat.

Genetic diversity and footprint of the Ethiopian cattle population, and the application of molecular information on sustainable cattle genetic improvement: Opportunities, challenges, and future directions in Ethiopia. A comprehensive review

AbstractEthiopia has over 70 million cattle, and about 97.4% of the total cattle in the country are local breeds. The remaining are hybrid and exotic breeds, which account for about 2.3% and 0.31%, respectively. The genetic diversity and genomic footprint of Ethiopian cattle populations represent a valuable reservoir of biodiversity with profound implications for sustainable agriculture and food security. The application of molecular information in sustainable cattle breeding improvement presents significant opportunities for Ethiopia's livestock sector. The review explores the genetic diversity, genomic footprint, potential benefits, challenges, and future directions associated with integrating molecular technologies into cattle breeding programs in the country. Molecular tools, such as genomics and marker‐assisted selection, enable the identification and utilization of genetic variation related to desirable traits, including productivity, disease resistance, and adaptation to changing climatic conditions. By utilizing these tools, Ethiopian breeders can accelerate genetic progress, enhance the resilience of cattle populations to climate change, and improve overall productivity. However, several challenges must be addressed to effectively harness the benefits of molecular technologies. These challenges include limited infrastructure and resources for genomic research, inadequate data on cattle genetics and performance, and the need for capacity building among stakeholders involved in breeding programs. By incorporating genetic markers associated with important traits, breeders can identify superior animals at an early age, accelerating genetic progress within the population. Integration of this technology with traditional breeding practices and the identification of selection signatures can lead to more sustainable and effective breeding strategies. In conclusion, the application of molecular information in sustainable cattle breeding improvement offers promising opportunities for Ethiopia's livestock sector. By investing in genomic research, building collaborations, and implementing comprehensive breeding programs, Ethiopia can harness the full potential of molecular technologies to enhance cattle productivity.

Polymorphisms of TXK and PLCE1 Genes and Their Correlation Analysis with Growth Traits in Ashidan Yaks.

The tyrosine protein kinase (TXK) gene, as a member of the non-receptor tyrosine kinase Tec family, plays a vital role in signal transduction mediation. Phospholipase C epsilon 1 (PLCE1), a membrane-associated enzyme, is of paramount importance for the differentiation of myoblasts and the normal functioning of muscle tissue. In recent years, both of these genes have been reported to be associated with the economic traits of animals. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the TXK and PLCE1 genes and growth traits in Ashidan yaks and to search for potential molecular marker loci that can influence Ashidan yak breeding. A cGPS liquid microarray was utilized to genotype 232 Ashidan yaks and to analyze correlations between two SNP loci in the TXK and PLCE1 genes and yak body weight, body height, body length, and chest circumference at different periods. The results indicated that the g.55,999,531C>T locus of the TXK gene and the g.342,350T>G locus of the PLCE1 gene were significantly correlated with the growth traits of Ashidan yaks. Among these, individuals with the CC genotype at the g.55,999,531C>T locus showed a significantly higher body length at 6 months old compared to TT individuals, and those with the CT genotype at 12 months old had a significantly higher chest circumference than TT individuals. At the g.342,350T>G locus, the body height of GG genotype individuals at 18 months of age was significantly higher than that of TT genotype individuals and TG genotype individuals. The above findings can be used as theoretical support for the subsequent improvement of Ashidan yak breeding.

Transcriptomic Profiling Reveals Altered Expression of Genes Involved in Metabolic and Immune Processes in NDV-Infected Chicken Embryos.

The poultry industry is significantly impacted by viral infections, particularly Newcastle Disease Virus (NDV), which leads to substantial economic losses. It is essential to comprehend how the sequence of development affects biological pathways and how early exposure to infections might affect immune responses. This study employed transcriptome analysis to investigate host-pathogen interactions by analyzing gene expression changes in NDV-infected chicken embryos' lungs. RNA-Seq reads were aligned with the chicken reference genome (Galgal7), revealing 594 differentially expressed genes: 264 upregulated and 330 downregulated. The most overexpressed genes, with logFC between 8.15 and 8.75, included C8A, FGG, PIT54, FETUB, APOC3, and FGA. Notably, downregulated genes included BPIFB3 (-4.46 logFC) and TRIM39.1 (-4.26 logFC). The analysis also identified 29 novel transcripts and 20 lncRNAs that were upregulated. Gene Ontology and KEGG pathways' analyses revealed significant alterations in gene expression related to immune function, metabolism, cell cycle, nucleic acid processes, and mitochondrial activity due to NDV infection. Key metabolic genes, such as ALDOB (3.27 logFC), PRPS2 (2.66 logFC), and XDH (2.15 logFC), exhibited altered expression patterns, while DCK2 (-1.99 logFC) and TK1 (-2.11 logFC) were also affected. Several immune-related genes showed significant upregulation in infected lung samples, including ALB (6.15 logFC), TLR4 (1.86 logFC), TLR2 (2.79 logFC), and interleukin receptors, such as IL1R2 (3.15 logFC) and IL22RA2 (1.37 logFC). Conversely, genes such as CXCR4 (-1.49 logFC), CXCL14 (-2.57 logFC), GATA3 (-1.51 logFC), and IL17REL (-2.93 logFC) were downregulated. The higher expression of HSP genes underscores their vital role in immune responses. Comprehension of these genes' interactions is essential for regulating viral replication and immune responses during infections, potentially aiding in the identification of candidate genes for poultry breed improvement amidst NDV challenges.

In vitro Multiplication of Cymbidium finlaysonianum (Lindl.) from Leaf Segments

The current investigation is envisioned to conserve one of the floriferous species i.e. Cymbidium finlaysonianum through in vitro leaf segment culture. The Cymbidiums are highly ornamental and have huge commercial demand, hence their germplasm needs to be conserved. Leaf segments (1.0 cm size) procured from 28 weeks of sterilize cultures were utilized as explants. These were inoculated in Murashige and Skoog medium (1962) enriched with auxin and cytokinin at 1 mgl-1. The highest regeneration frequency i.e. 80% was observed in 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP), followed by 60% regeneration growth in a-naphthalene acetic acid (NAA). Early development of plantlets was observed within 14 weeks of culturing in MS+BAP medium. This study demonstrates an effective use of in vitro multiplication methodology for Cymbidium finlaysonianum, which can be used for large-scale multiplication and conservation of this valuable orchid species before it goes extinct. The use of leaf segments as explants offers a promising approach for orchid breeding and genetic improvement programs. . KEYWORDS :6-benzylaminopurine (BAP), Cymbidium finlaysonianum, Germplasm, Leaf segment