Understanding Transcriptomic and Serological Differences between Forced Molting and Natural Molting in Laying Hens.

ABSTRACT: Molting is natural adaptation to climate change in all birds, including chickens. Forced molting (FM) can rejuvenate and reactivate the reproductive potential of aged hens, but the effect of natural molting (NM) on older chickens is not clear. To explore why FM has a dramatically different effect on chickens compared with NM, the transcriptome analyses of the hypothalamus and ovary in forced molted and natural molted hens at two periods with feathers fallen and regrown were performed. Additionally, each experimental chicken was tested for serological indices. The results of serological indices showed that growth hormone, thyroid stimulating hormone, and thyroxine levels were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in forced molted hens than in natural molted hens, and calcitonin concentrations wer

SUBMITTER: Zhang T 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8774386 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature