Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: The Baicheng-You chicken is a valuable local breed in Xinjiang, China, known for its strong disease and stress resistance and excellent meat quality. However, it has not been scientifically bred or protected, leading to low production performance, particularly in reproductive traits. This study collected phenotypic and whole-genome resequencing data from 742 individuals at an average coverage of -5×, constructing a comprehensive variation map for the first time. Heritability estimates for egg-laying traits were moderate to high, ranging from 0.382 to 0.592. Through genome-wide association analysis, 19 SNPs and 120 candidate genes potentially associated with egg-laying traits were identified, with NCAPG, FAM184B, and the HOXA family playing crucial roles in regulating reproductive performance. These findings enable marker-assisted selection for higher egg yield, offering a targeted strategy to enhance productivity while preserving the genetic diversity and adaptive traits of this local breed.
Source: Animals
DOI: 10.3390/ani15233360
Authors: Gaoyun You, Tinghao Jiang, Haiying Li, Wei Dong, Xiaoyu Zhao, Shihao Zhang, Zhuocheng Hou, Herong Liao, Zhongtao Yin
Language: English
Subfield: Genetics
Domain: Life Sciences
SDG: Zero hunger
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,896
OpenAlex ID: W4416459449