Integrating the transcriptome and proteome to identify important functional genes for laying hens with hard- or weak-shelled eggs

Abstract

Background Eggshell strength and thickness are critical factors for reducing the egg breaking rate and preventing economic losses. The calcite biomineralization process is very important for eggshell quality. Therefore, we employed transcriptional sequencing and proteomics to investigate the differences between the uteruses of laying hens with high- or low-breaking-strength shells. Results We identified 1028 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and 270 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs). The analysis results of GO terms and KEGG pathways showed most of the DEGs and DEPs were enriched in vital pathways related to such processes as calcium metabolism, hormone and amino acid biosynthesis, and cell proliferation and apoptosis. Some DEGs and DEPs that were coexpressed at mRNA and protein levels were verified. Conclusion in summary, this study confirmed that during normal calcification, there are differences in ion transport between the uterus of hens producing high-breaking-strength and those producing low-breaking-strength eggshells, which may help to elucidate the eggshell calcification process.