Light-induced epigenetic modifications in the hypothalamus during avian embryonic development enhance phenotypic plasticity.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Early brain development is highly sensitive to environmental cues, which can exert lasting phenotypic effects. Targeted external interventions during this critical period can shape developmental trajectories and influence an animal's phenotype. Aligned with this concept, fetal responses to light-induced stimuli-varying in wavelength, frequency, and duration-are thought to facilitate adaptive reactions that enhance phenotypic plasticity and equip organisms to meet environmental challenges.

Methods

In this study, broiler eggs were exposed to green monochromatic illumination (GMI) either continuously throughout incubation (Green) or during the final 3 days only (G3D) and compared to dark and white light controls.

Results

Genome-wide analyses revealed signifi

SUBMITTER: Bartman J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12241980 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature