1. Differences in gene expression and variable splicing events of ovaries between large and small litter size in Chinese Xiang pigs
- Author
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Fengbin Hu, Fuping Zhang, Xueqin Ran, Huang Shihui, Fanli Yi, Ning Mao, Liangting Tang, Jiafu Wang, Yiqi Ruan, Longjiang You, Sheng Li, Jianfeng Liu, and Niu Xi
- Subjects
Genetics ,Litter (animal) ,Veterinary medicine ,Research ,Ovary ,Steroid biosynthesis ,Quantitative trait locus ,Biology ,Xiang pig ,SF1-1100 ,Animal culture ,Transcriptome ,medicine.anatomical_structure ,Litter size ,SF600-1100 ,Gene expression ,medicine ,Animal Science and Zoology ,KEGG ,Small Animals ,Gene ,Alternative splicing - Abstract
Background Although lots of quantitative trait loci (QTLs) and genes present roles in litter size of some breeds, the information might not make it clear for the huge diversity of reproductive capability in pig breeds. To elucidate the inherent mechanisms of heterogeneity of reproductive capability in litter size of Xiang pig, we performed transcriptome analysis for the expression profile in ovaries using RNA-seq method. Results We identified 1,419 up-regulated and 1,376 down-regulated genes in Xiang pigs with large litter size. Among them, 1,010 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were differently spliced between two groups with large or small litter sizes. Based on GO and KEGG analysis, numerous members of genes were gathered in ovarian steroidogenesis, steroid biosynthesis, oocyte maturation and reproduction processes. Conclusions Combined with gene biological function, twelve genes were found out that might be related with the reproductive capability of Xiang pig, of which, eleven genes were recognized as hub genes. These genes may play a role in promoting litter size by elevating steroid and peptide hormones supply through the ovary and facilitating the processes of ovulation and in vivo fertilization.
- Published
- 2021