Transcriptome analysis and identification of age-associated fertility decreased genes in hen uterovaginal junction

Abstract

Avian sperm storage tubules ( SSTs ), which are located in the uterovaginal junction ( UVJ ) of the oviduct, are primary sperm storage sites after mating or artificial insemination. The mechanism underlying reduced sperm storage efficiency of SSTs which is highly correlated with decreased fertility rates in aged laying breeders remains largely unclear. Here, comparative transcriptomic analysis between the aged and young White Leghorn hens (120 vs. 30 wk) was applied to identify gene expression changes of UVJs containing SSTs. Bioinformatics analysis revealed 567 upregulated and 1998 downregulated differentially expressed genes. Gene ontology analysis was highly enriched in terms of immune system, cell adhesion, and cytoskeleton proteins. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis revealed 5 significant ( P < 0.05) pathways including inositol phosphate and glycerophospholipid metabolism. β-Galactosidase staining of chicken UVJ sections suggested increased cell senescence via aging. Oil Red O staining and immunohistochemistry detection of ADFP both confirmed distribution of lipid droplets in SST cells with increased intensity in aged breeders. The lipid synthesis and metabolism-related genes represented by TFAP2 and PLD1 were differentially expressed in aged laying breeders. The upregulation of IL15 and downregulation of a large number of immune-related genes in aged breeders indicate altered immune homeostasis in UVJs and SSTs. The increased accumulation of lipids, and altered immunity homeostasis, combined with other factors ( TJP1 , MYL9 , AFDN , and RPL13 , etc.) are potentially dominant effectors to decrease the sperm storage efficiency and egg fertility in aged laying breeders.

Transcriptome analysis of inseminated sperm storage tubules throughout the duration of fertility in the domestic turkey, Meleagris gallopavo

“…Additionally, collagen degradation enzymes matrix metalloproteinases 1 and 3 ( MMP1 and MMP3 ) exhibited increased at the earlier timepoints, potentially contributing to SST formation. The enrichment of genes related to extracellular matrix remodeling and associated receptor signaling has also been documented in transcriptome analysis of chicken SST ( Yang et al., 2020 ; Yang et al., 2021b ). Cytoskeletal elements and the F-actin rich areas of SST, combined with neuronal components including small ganglia and neurons within the tissue surrounding SST, have also been hypothesized to regulate SST contraction for sperm release ( Freedman et al., 2001 ).…”

Comparative transcriptome analysis of Indian domestic duck reveals candidate genes associated with egg production

“…Similarly, the expression of BRAF (B-Raf proto-oncogene, serine/threonine kinase) which is involved in progesterone mediated oocyte maturation and MAPK pathways, was also found to be elevated in the ovary of HEL ducks. BRAF has been previously reported to be associated with fertility and egg production in chickens 24 . The enrichment of these genes suggests increased meiotic division in the ovary of HEL ducks.…”

Characteristics of the Mating Behavior of Domesticated Geese from Anser cygnoides and Anser anser

“…The longer time spent together with opposite sexes, the better reproductive performance of animals by increasing familiarity and enhancing cooperation [ 27 ]. Unlike commercial chickens, natural mating is the most common way accepted for female geese to breed the next generation [ 28 ]. Upon reaching sexual maturity, female geese are mixed with male geese and are allowed to reproduce in the newly formed breeding flock.…”