Major Source Of Protein Research Articles

Identification of HSSP1 as a regulator of soybean protein content through QTL analysis and Soy-SPCC network.

Soybeans (Glycine max L. Merr.) are a major source of plant-based protein for human nutrition and livestock feed. Enhancing the protein content of soybean seeds is vital for meeting growing dietary needs and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. In this study, we first performed QTL (Quantitative Trait Loci) mapping analysis and constructed a Soybean Seed Protein Content Co-expression (Soy-SPCC) network to identify key genes associated with soybean seed protein accumulation. Next, we investigated the role of High Seed Storage Protein1 (HSSP1) in regulating soybean seed protein content through a comprehensive analysis. Functional validation through overexpression and gene knockout experiments demonstrated that HSSP1, a key component of the Soy-SPCC network, significantly influences seed storage protein levels. Particularly, HSSP1 enhances the expression of GmCG1 by binding directly to its cis-acting element, leading to increased protein content in soybean seeds. Furthermore, we performed a molecular module stacking breeding analysis of 120 candidate genes identified from the Soy-SPCC network, including HSSP1, to identify genetic variations associated with protein content. This study provides a novel perspective on soybean protein regulation. The identification of HSSP1 as a critical regulator offers valuable insights for developing high-protein soybean varieties and advancing breeding strategies aimed at improving soybean seed quality.

Genetic regulation of gene expression across multiple tissues in chickens.

The chicken is a valuable model for understanding fundamental biology and vertebrate evolution and is a major global source of nutrient-dense and lean protein. Despite being the first non-mammalian amniote to have its genome sequenced, a systematic characterization of functional variation on the chicken genome remains lacking. Here, we integrated bulk RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) data from 7,015 samples, single-cell RNA-seq data from 127,598 cells and 2,869 whole-genome sequences to present a pilot atlas of regulatory variants across 28 chicken tissues. This atlas reveals millions of regulatory effects on primary expression (protein-coding genes, long non-coding RNA and exons) and post-transcriptional modifications (alternative splicing and 3'-untranslated region alternative polyadenylation). We highlighted distinct molecular mechanisms underlying these regulatory variants, their context-dependent behavior and their utility in interpreting genome-wide associations for 39 chicken complex traits. Finally, our comparative analyses of gene regulation between chickens and mammals demonstrate how this resource can facilitate cross-species gene mapping of complex traits.

Cost-Effective Active Laser Scanning System for Depth-Aware Deep-Learning-Based Instance Segmentation in Poultry Processing

The poultry industry plays a pivotal role in global agriculture, with poultry serving as a major source of protein and contributing significantly to economic growth. However, the sector faces challenges associated with labor-intensive tasks that are repetitive and physically demanding. Automation has emerged as a critical solution to enhance operational efficiency and improve working conditions. Specifically, robotic manipulation and handling of objects is becoming ubiquitous in factories. However, challenges exist to precisely identify and guide a robot to handle a pile of objects with similar textures and colors. This paper focuses on the development of a vision system for a robotic solution aimed at automating the chicken rehanging process, a fundamental yet physically strenuous activity in poultry processing. To address the limitation of the generic instance segmentation model in identifying overlapped objects, a cost-effective, dual-active laser scanning system was developed to generate precise depth data on objects. The well-registered depth data generated were integrated with the RGB images and sent to the instance segmentation model for individual chicken detection and identification. This enhanced approach significantly improved the model’s performance in handling complex scenarios involving overlapping chickens. Specifically, the integration of RGB-D data increased the model’s mean average precision (mAP) detection accuracy by 4.9% and significantly improved the center offset—a customized metric introduced in this study to quantify the distance between the ground truth mask center and the predicted mask center. Precise center detection is crucial for the development of future robotic control solutions, as it ensures accurate grasping during the chicken rehanging process. The center offset was reduced from 22.09 pixels (7.30 mm) to 8.09 pixels (2.65 mm), demonstrating the approach’s effectiveness in mitigating occlusion challenges and enhancing the reliability of the vision system.

The search to understand the development of the chicken immune system: Differences in expression of MHC class I loci and waves of thymocytes as evolutionary relics?

The search to understand the development of the chicken immune system: Differences in expression of MHC class I loci and waves of thymocytes as evolutionary relics?

PIGOME: An Integrated and Comprehensive Multi-omics Database for Pig Functional Genomics Studies.

PIGOME: An Integrated and Comprehensive Multi-omics Database for Pig Functional Genomics Studies.

Bone morphogenetic protein 10 is increased in precapillary pulmonary hypertension patients.

Precapillary pulmonary hypertension (precPH) results in increased right atrial (RA) stretch and pressure. The right atrium is the major source of bone morphogenetic protein 10 (BMP10) in adults, primarily produced by RA cardiomyocytes. The aim of this study was to investigate BMP10 expression in the right heart and systemic circulation and to identify potential triggers for increased BMP10 secretion associated with precPH. We examined BMP10 mRNA and protein expressions in RA tissue. Circulating BMP10 plasma levels were determined using ELISA. BMP10 transcriptional activity was studied using a BRE-Luciferase assay. Correlation analyses were performed between circulating BMP10 and RA dilatation as well as right ventricular (RV) function. Finally, we determined the impact of pressure unloading on BMP10 activity in Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension (CTEPH) patients before and after pulmonary endarterectomy (PEA).BMP10 mRNA, protein and activity were significantly increased in the precPH right atrium. While circulating BMP10 protein levels were elevated, no significant changes were observed in BMP10 transcriptional activity between precPH and controls. Interestingly, RA dilatation, increased RA pressure, high NTproBNP levels and reduced RV ejection fraction were associated with high BMP10 activity. Finally, pressure unloading after PEA in a cohort of CTEPH patients, resulted in reduced BMP10 activity. In conclusion, RA BMP10 expression and plasma levels are increased in precPH, likely triggered by excessive RA dilatation and pressure overload. Future studies are needed to determine whether increased BMP10 release is an adaptive mechanism or a potential therapeutic target.

Quantitative Trait Loci Mapping for Yield and Related Traits in Cowpea.

Background/Objectives: Cowpea is a major source of dietary protein and plays a key role in sustainable agriculture across sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), Asia, and Latin America. Research efforts have focused mainly on enhancing productivity through higher yield and resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses in cowpea. Understanding the genetic basis of yield and associated agronomic traits is crucial for improving crop productivity. This study aims to identify quantitative trait loci (QTL) associated with grain yield and related traits in cowpea under regular rainfed conditions. Methods: We developed a set of 316 F6:7 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) mapping populations derived from a cross between RP270 and CB27 using a single-seed descent breeding method. The RILs and their two parental lines were evaluated in the field for two years, 2022 and 2023, at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) in Ibadan, Nigeria. The cowpea mid-density genotyping panel consisting of 2602 quality DArTag single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) was used to genotype the RIL population. Results: Seven major QTLs, each explaining ≥10% of phenotypic variance, were detected for 100-seed weight, number of days to flower, number of pods per plant, number of branches per plant, and number of peduncles per plant. Putative genes associated with yield and related traits were identified within significant flanking markers. Further efforts to validate these loci will help to better understand their roles in yield and associated traits in cowpea.

Application of High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry for Ciguatoxin Detection in Fish from the Asia-Pacific Region.

Fish is a major source of protein in Asia-Pacific countries. Ciguatera fish poisoning (CFP), caused by consuming reef fish contaminated with ciguatoxins (CTXs), poses a significant health risk, affecting the neurological, gastrointestinal, and cardiovascular systems. Climate change and the global food trade are potentially major factors contributing to the expanding geographical range and frequency of CFP outbreaks. Therefore, the surveillance and monitoring of CTXs in fishery products are essential to safeguard food safety. In this study, liquid chromatography-high-resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS) was used to screen for CTXs in wild-caught fish from the region. Analysis of two grouper fish samples from Okinawa, Japan, detected CTX-1B, a major CTX known to incur in fish from the Asia-Pacific region. Additionally, putative Indian Ocean CTXs (I-CTXs) were also identified. Further study with HRMS on wild-caught red emperor fish from Southeast Asia waters revealed low levels of I-CTXs as well. These findings underscore the urgent need for enhanced food safety measures and expansion of monitoring protocols to include I-CTXs. This research contributes to the global understanding of CTX distribution and confirms the importance of HRMS application in routine surveillance to mitigate the risks associated with ciguatera fish poisoning (CFP).

EVALUATION OF THE NUTRITIONAL VALUE OF EISENIA FETIDA CULTIVATED ON KITCHEN WASTE AS A PROTEIN SOURCE FOR POULTRY

Broiler chicken is one of the major lean sources of protein. In many countries, its demand is rapidly increasing. Soybean and fishmeal are commonly used in poultry feed; however due to hype in price and decrease in production rate these feedstuffs become limited and scarce. Protein is one of the major component of poultry feed costs about 60%-70%. However due to high cost of protein, it becomes a challenging factor for farmers to supply enormous amount of protein in poultry feed. These challenging factors led to the discovery of an alternative rich source of animal based poultry feed with enormous amount of protein. Thus, this need led to the discovery an alternative source of protein for poultry that could be red worm (Eisenia fetida). The purpose of this study was the better growth and development yielded with high nutritional composition of red worms reared on cow manure and organic food waste and to introduce earthworm meal as an alternative protein source for Poultry. Red worms have a potential to be used as a protein supplement. Red worms are a good source of protein (58- 71% dry matter). In this case study, 390 red worms were reared on kitchen waste. For rearing of worms, cow manure mixed with soil (1:1) was used as a culture substrate. Cow manure was used because it has high amount of nitrogen which is more nutritious for growth and development of worms than any other culture substrate. The assay was conducted for about 3 months in winter season. Nutritional value of worms was analyzed after their rearing to determine their nutritional content. Proximate analysis was performed to determine the nutritional value of red worms. Kitchen waste was preferably used to overcome the waste pollution as well as it was a cheap and good source of organic matter.

Enhancement of the Seed Color, Antioxidant Properties, and Agronomic Traits of Colored Wheat via Gamma Radiation Mutagenesis.

Wheat, a staple crop cultivated for over 8000 years, sustains more than 2.5 billion people globally, as a major source of carbohydrate, protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Colored wheat, enriched with dietary fiber and antioxidants, offers valuable genetic resources for developing functional wheat varieties. Herein, a mutant pool of 1069 colored wheat lines was developed through gamma-ray irradiation to enhance genetic diversity. Mutant lines were classified into 10 groups based on seed color parameters (L*, a*, and b*), which were measured using the Hunter Lab system. K-means clustering categorized the mutant lines, and four representative lines from each group were analyzed for agronomic traits (plant height, spike length, thousand-seed weight, and kernels per spike) and antioxidant properties (radical-scavenging activity, ferric reducing antioxidant power, and total antioxidant capacity). Principal-component analysis revealed distinct clustering patterns, indicating associations between seed color, agronomic traits, and antioxidant activity. Darker seed color groups exhibited 3-16% higher levels of bioactive compounds and 10-18% higher antioxidant activities, whereas lighter groups showed 8-42% lower functional potential compared to the control wheat. These findings highlight the potential of mutation breeding in generating phenotypic diversity and developing wheat varieties with improved functional traits and bioactive compound content.

Dietary supplementation with JASMINUM SAMBAC leaf powder: effects on GROWTH, HEMATOLOGY, and IMMUNE PARAMETERS in BROILER CHICKENS

Dietary supplementation with JASMINUM SAMBAC leaf powder: effects on GROWTH, HEMATOLOGY, and IMMUNE PARAMETERS in BROILER CHICKENS

Molecular identification of tetracycline resistance genes in Escherichia coli isolates from internal organs of swine sold on Abakaliki, Nigeria.

Swine is one of the major sources of protein to humans worldwide; antimicrobial-resistant Escherichia coli has become a global public health challenge affecting both humans and livestock due to the presence of tetracycline resistance genes. This study focused on molecular identification of tetracycline resistance genes (tet A and B) in E. coli isolates from internal organs of swine sold in a slaughterhouse at Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria. A total of 75 internal organs of swine samples were collected from slaughterhouses. Standard microbiological procedures were employed to evaluate the samples bacteriologically. Using the disk diffusion method, antibiotic susceptibility testing was conducted on E. coli against specific classes of antibiotics, and the multiple antibiotic resistance index was calculated. The polymerase chain reaction was utilized for the molecular identification of the tetracycline resistance genes, specifically tet A and B. Out of the 75 samples analyzed, 24 of 75 were positive for E. coli with an overall prevalence of 24/75 (32.0%). The small intestine and colon had higher percentages of E. coli isolates 6/15 (40.0%). However, E. coli isolates were resistant to erythromycin, tetracycline, and ampicillin which ranged from 20.0% to 75.0%, and susceptible to gentamycin and ciprofloxacin at a range of 75.0%-100.0%. Exactly, 8 (33.3%) isolates were both multidrug and tetracycline-resistant. The presence of tet A 6/8 (75.0%), tet B 5/8 (62.5%), and tet A and B 4/8 (50.0%) was reported. Multidrug and tetracycline resistance genes have been observed in E. coli isolated from internal organs of swine and are of public health concern.

Molecular identification of tetracycline resistance genes in Escherichia coli isolates from internal organs of swine sold on Abakaliki, Nigeria.

Swine is one of the major sources of protein to humans worldwide; antimicrobial-resistant Escherichia coli has become a global public health challenge affecting both humans and livestock due to the presence of tetracycline resistance genes. This study focused on molecular identification of tetracycline resistance genes (tet A and B) in E. coli isolates from internal organs of swine sold in a slaughterhouse at Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria. A total of 75 internal organs of swine samples were collected from slaughterhouses. Standard microbiological procedures were employed to evaluate the samples bacteriologically. Using the disk diffusion method, antibiotic susceptibility testing was conducted on E. coli against specific classes of antibiotics, and the multiple antibiotic resistance index was calculated. The polymerase chain reaction was utilized for the molecular identification of the tetracycline resistance genes, specifically tet A and B. Out of the 75 samples analyzed, 24 of 75 were positive for E. coli with an overall prevalence of 24/75 (32.0%). The small intestine and colon had higher percentages of E. coli isolates 6/15 (40.0%). However, E. coli isolates were resistant to erythromycin, tetracycline, and ampicillin which ranged from 20.0% to 75.0%, and susceptible to gentamycin and ciprofloxacin at a range of 75.0%-100.0%. Exactly, 8 (33.3%) isolates were both multidrug and tetracycline-resistant. The presence of tet A 6/8 (75.0%), tet B 5/8 (62.5%), and tet A and B 4/8 (50.0%) was reported. Multidrug and tetracycline resistance genes have been observed in E. coli isolated from internal organs of swine and are of public health concern.

Reduction of gossypol in cottonseed meal using halophilic archaeal fermentation for enhanced feed safety and nutritional value

This study investigated the capacity of halophilic archaea fermentation to detoxify gossypol, a poisonous polyphenolic compound present in cottonseed meal, a major protein source in animal feed. The objective of the study was to investigate the ability of the fermentation process of using halophilic archaeal fermentation to decrease the level of gossypol in cottonseed meal as well as to increase the protein content of the diets. Halophilic microorganisms are able to survive in harsh environmental conditions, offer a potential answer for difficult industrial operations. Cottonseed meal contains high quantities of gossypol, was subjected to fermentation with the halophilic archaeon Halorubrum ezzemoulense in order to reduce gossypol levels and enhance protein content. The study entailed the fermentation of cottonseed meal with H. ezzemoulense, and the amounts of gossypol in the feeds before and after fermentation were assessed using HPLC. Results showed that there was significant (p<0.05) reduction (5.59±0.17 mg/kg) in the gossypol level after microbial fermentation compared to the control which was (139.03±7.17 mg/kg). The protein and lipid content of substrate increased significantly (p<0.05). These analyses revealed modifications in the nutritional values as a result of the fermentation process. The findings indicated a substantial decrease in gossypol levels, coupled with a remarkable rise in protein content. This novel technology not only tackled the drawbacks linked to cottonseed meal but also highlighted the capacity of halophilic archaea fermentation as a sustainable and efficient technique for enhancing the nutritional value of animal feed. Further research could focus on optimizing fermentation, exploring scale-up possibilities, and evaluating broader implications for the livestock industry.

Fish Food and Community Health: An Assessment of the Contribution of Capture Fisheries to Nutritional Needs of Households in Nigeria

Capture fisheries has been a major source of animal protein to households in Nigeria especially among low income households and riverine rural communities. This study evaluated the potential contribution of captured fishes to meeting the recommended nutrient intakes (RNIs) of various population groups in consumer households. Results of nutritional composition of Clarias gariepinus, Synodontis schall and Tilapia zillii indicate that the fish species are good sources of animal protein (15.87 – 17.64%), fish oil (1.74 – 6.53%) and micronutrients (1.54 – 8.24 mg/100g). The low per capita consumption of fish as food in Nigeria (8.39 kg) has led to the poor contribution (≤ 25%) of these fishes to the average daily recommended nutrient intake (RNI) of calcium, iron, and zinc in adults, pregnant and lactating women (PLW) and children. Estimations of RNI showed increasing percentage contribution with increasing per capita consumption of fish among various population groups. The need for increased fish consumption among the various population groups in Nigeria (>30 kg per capita); investments in community based aquaculture of commercial fish species and dietary inclusion of other food sources with good quantities of nutrients are recommended to ameliorate malnutrition and undernutrition especially among the vulnerable group of consumers.

Antimicrobial Susceptibility Profiles of Commensal Enterococcus spp. Isolates from Chickens in Hungarian Poultry Farms Between 2022 and 2023.

Background: The global spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) represents one of the most significant challenges of our generation. It is crucial to continuously monitor AMR, not only by investigating clinical, pathogenic strains but also by monitoring commensal bacterial strains, as they can serve as natural reservoirs of resistance. Infections caused by Enterococcus species are increasingly recognized as emerging threats to both animal and public health. Among economically important livestock, poultry as a major source of animal protein for humans is a frequent carrier of enterococci, and also of sporadically detected clinical disease. Methods: This study aimed to determine the antimicrobial susceptibility profile of Enterococcus strains (n = 499) isolated from chicken farms in Hungary. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined for 15 antibiotics, including 10 with established clinical breakpoints. Results: The strains exhibited good sensitivity to amoxicillin, one of the first-line treatments for Enterococcus infections in veterinary medicine, with only 20.8% showing resistance. However, we observed an alarming 27.9% resistance rate to vancomycin, which is reserved to treat infections caused by multidrug-resistant strains in humans. A comparison of our findings with Hungarian hospital records revealed that the resistance patterns of poultry-derived Enterococcus faecalis strains were very similar to those of human isolates, particularly regarding penicillins and aminoglycosides. Conclusions: Overall, the increasing rates of AMR reinforce the importance of conducting periodic studies to establish long-term trends. For multidrug-resistant strains, next-generation sequencing is recommended to elucidate the genetic basis of resistance.

Antimicrobial Susceptibility Profiles of Commensal Escherichia coli Isolates from Chickens in Hungarian Poultry Farms Between 2022 and 2023.

Background: Widespread use of antibiotics has led to a global increase in resistance. The Escherichia coli bacterium is a facultative pathogen that often develops antibiotic resistance and is easily transmitted, not only in animal health but also in public health. Within the poultry sector, domestic fowl is widespread and one of the most dynamically growing sectors, which is why regular, extensive monitoring is crucial. Among economically important livestock, poultry as a major source of animal protein for humans is a frequent carrier of Escherichia coli, also with sporadically detected clinical disease. Methods: Our research evaluates the susceptibility of commensal Escherichia coli strains, isolated from large domestic fowl flocks in Hungary, to antibiotics of animal and public health importance, by determining the minimum inhibitory concentration value. Results: A total of 410 isolates were tested, with the highest level of resistance being found for florfenicol (62.7%). Particularly alarming are the resistance rates to enrofloxacin (52.9%), colistin (30.7%), and ceftriaxone (23.9%). We also found a resistance of 56.1% to amoxicillin and 22.2% to amoxicillin-clavulanic acid, which suggests that the majority of strains are β-lactamase-producing. When compared with the national human resistance data, we found with similar values for amoxicillin and amoxicillin-clavulanic acid, but the resistance rates of aminoglycosides, fluoroquinolones, and potency sulfonamide were worse in animal health. Conclusions: In conclusion, our results suggest that periodic surveys should be carried out and that long-term trends can be established that allow the monitoring of resistance patterns over time. For multidrug-resistant strains, new generation sequencing can be used to investigate the genetic background of resistance.

Gamma-ray irradiation alters the morphology, anatomy and agronomic characters of the groundnut (Arachis hypogaea) bison cultivar in M1 generation

Abstract. Nilahayati, Handayani RS, Nazimah, Neni, Saputra D. 2024. Gamma-ray irradiation alters the morphology, anatomy and agronomic characters of the groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) bison cultivar in M1 generation. Biodiversitas 25: 4179-4189. Groundnut is the world's most important agricultural commodity, serving as a major source of protein and vegetable oil. Enhancing the genetic diversity of groundnuts is essential for improving yield, early maturity and environmental resistance such as drought tolerance. This study aims to determine the effect of gamma irradiation on the morphological and agronomic diversity of bison groundnut cultivar in the M1 generation. Gamma irradiation was carried out at the Radiation Process Technology Research Center, National Research and Innovation Agency of Indonesia, Jakarta. This research was designed using a single-factor Randomized Complete Block Design. The dose of gamma irradiation was 0 Gray (Gy), 100 Gy, 200 Gy, and 300 Gy, with three replications. Consequently, there were a total of 12 experimental units. We generated 600 groundnut plants in total. The observed variables included morphological diversity such as variation in leaf, stem, seed color and seed shape. The agronomic variability was recorded to the seed growth percentage, plant height, number of branches, flowering age, harvesting age, number of pods, number of empty pods, dry pod weight per plant, dry seed weight per plant, 100 seed weight per plot, dry seed weight per plot, length, width, and number of leaf stomata. The results showed that gamma irradiation treatment induced morphological and agronomic changes in the bison groundnut cultivar. Morphological changes included alterations in leaf color, pod shape, and seed coat color. Higher doses of gamma irradiation can negatively impact certain agronomic traits such as plant height and yield, beginning at 200 Gy, but at 100 Gy all parameters slightly increased. Higher dose of gamma irradiation also delayed the flowering and harvesting time. Further studies are also needed to evaluate the heritability of these traits in the M2 generation to ensure the stability of desirable traits.

US soybean seed protein concentrations—Current status, challenges, and some potential crop management solutions

AbstractSoybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] is the major source of protein for livestock and poultry feed in many countries including the United States. The United States is the second largest exporter of the soybean in the world. Although soybean yield in the United States has gradually increased over the past few decades, a consistent decline in seed protein concentration during the same period has occurred. As a result, soybean meal produced from some US seeds fails to meet the high‐quality animal feed standards. Due to this trend, there is an urgent need to improve seed protein concentration to make US soybean competitive in the global feed market. This review article discusses the status of declining soybean seed protein concentration trend in the United States, its effect on soybean meal and animal feed quality and some potential solutions to promote soybean nutritional quality.

Evaluating Poultry Litter as a Feed Supplement: Perspectives of Ghanaian Livestock Farmers

Cattle, sheep, and goats are crucial to human development, serving as major protein sources, income providers, and as a hedge against economic risk in Ghana. The demand for protein from these animals has significantly outpaced supply, partly due to insufficient or unavailable feed resources. This study investigates the use of poultry litter as a feed supplement for livestock. Data were collected from 125 livestock farmers raising cattle, sheep, and goats, using a simple random sampling technique and a structured questionnaire. Results show that cassava husk is the primary feed source, with all respondents (100%) unaware of poultry litter as a potential feed supplement. Interestingly, a majority were aware of irradiation as a decontamination method for food products. Logit regression analysis indicated that farmers’ likelihood of using irradiated poultry litter as feed is influenced by the number of animals they own. Based on these findings, it is recommended that farmers be educated on the nutritional and economic benefits of using poultry litter as a sustainable feed supplement.