Work

Transcriptomic and metabolomic profiling of the Longissimus thoracis muscle insights into variations in meat quality between Hainan Black and Nubian Black goats

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Meat quality in tropical goats is shaped by genetic and environmental factors. This study compared Nubian Black (NB) and Hainan Black (HN) goats through transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses of Longissimus thoracis muscle. NB goats demonstrated higher carcass weight, larger muscle fiber diameter, and a predominance of type IIB (glycolytic) fibers (P < 0.05), traits associated with lean muscle mass. In contrast, HN goats exhibited a higher proportion of type I/IIa (oxidative) fibers and greater intramuscular fat content (P < 0.05), correlating with enhanced tenderness. Transcriptomic profiling identified over 2,000 differentially expressed genes enriched in pathways regulating lipid metabolism, thermogenesis, and muscle development. Metabolomic analysis revealed 185 significantly altered metabolites, with notable enrichment in fatty acid biosynthesis, glutamate/aspartate metabolism, and linoleic acid pathways—processes linked to flavor and lipid deposition. Integrated multi-omics analysis identified 17 key genes within four overlapping KEGG pathways, connecting transcriptional regulation to metabolic outcomes. These results highlight distinct molecular mechanisms: NB’s glycolytic phenotype supports higher meat yield, while HN’s oxidative metabolism and lipid synthesis pathways favor marbling and tenderness. The study provides actionable insights into genetic and metabolic markers for optimizing goat meat quality, balancing traits such as texture, flavor, and productivity in tropical breeding programs.

Source: LWT

DOI: 10.1016/j.lwt.2025.118522