Abstract:
Objective This study aims to elucidate the molecular regulatory mechanisms of the social genetic effects of residual feed intake (SGE-RFI) in Duroc pigs, and reveal the biological basis of how it influences group behavior through energy metabolism pathways, thereby providing a theoretical basis for improving feed utilization efficiency in pigs.
Method By employing RNA sequencing technology, a comprehensive transcriptome analysis of the liver tissue in Duroc pigs was conducted, systematically screening for key differentially expressed genes related to the SGE-RFI trait. Functional enrichment methods were used to analyze the biological pathways involved.
Result The study identified 360 significantly differentially expressed genes. Functional analysis indicated that these genes were primarily enriched in energy-related pathways such as mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation and ATP metabolism, suggesting an indirect influence on social behavior through the regulation of energy homeostasis. The coordinated expression changes in the apolipoprotein gene cluster APOA1, APOC3 and APOA4 revealed the interaction between the neuroendocrine system and lipid metabolism during the social genetic effect regulation.
Conclusion This research has constructed a multi-dimensional regulatory network for SGE-RFI in Duroc pigs, offering not only a new perspective for understanding the genetic mechanisms of group behavior, but also laying a molecular foundation for the precise selection of low residual feed intake breeding pigs and the optimization of group feeding management strategies.