Genomic and transcriptomic analyses unveil the genetic basis of green shank trait in small white-feather chickens.

ABSTRACT: Small white-feather chickens (SWFC) have become popular as a hybrid strain recently. Shank color is a notable economic trait in this strain. Despite numerous studies on the green shank trait from both physiological and genetic perspectives, research focusing specifically on the green shank trait in hybrid chickens (HC) remains limited. In this study, to investigate the genetic mechanisms and molecular basis of the green shank trait in HC, we created a population by intercrossing white-feathered and yellow-feathered broilers, both with yellow shanks. Physiological analysis confirmed that melanin deposition in the shank dermis is the primary cause of the green shank trait in HC. By combining genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and population genomics analysis, the 83.20-85.68 Mb region on

SUBMITTER: Kong S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11904536 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature