Integrating Whole-Genome Re-Sequencing and Transcriptome Data to Reveal the Molecular Mechanism of TBX5 Gene Regulating Feathered Feet in Guangxi Native Chickens

This study investigated the genetic basis of feathered feet in Guangxi native chickens by integrating whole-genome re-sequencing, transcriptomic analysis, and cellular experiments. A genome-wide association study of 1,735 chickens identified TBX5 as a key candidate gene for feathered feet. RNA sequencing and QRT-PCR confirmed differential expression of TBX5 between chickens with scaled and feathered feet. Cellular experiments showed that moderate overexpression of TBX5 significantly increased the expression of cell proliferation-related genes, while excessive overexpression or interference inhibited these genes, indicating a dose-dependent effect. TBX5 was found to promote the proliferation and migration of dermal fibroblasts, suggesting its role in the formation of feathered feet.