Impact of DNA methylation on digestive and metabolic gene expression in red pandas (Ailurus fulgens) during the transition from milk to bamboo diet.

ABSTRACT:

Background

DNA methylation plays a crucial role in species development and environmental adaptation. In mammals, there are significant dietary changes from infancy to adulthood. Notably, the red panda transitions from milk consumption as juveniles to a bamboo-based diet as adults, with significant alterations in food characteristics and nutritional content. However, the regulatory role of DNA methylation in this process remains unclear. In this study, we investigate the regulatory role of DNA methylation on the expression of digestive and metabolic genes in the liver and pancreas during the red panda's dietary transition from suckling stage to adulthood.

Results

Our findings reveal significant differences in DNA methylation patterns before and after dietary transition, highl

SUBMITTER: Chen L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12023452 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature