Dynamic Transcriptome Profile Analysis of Mechanisms Related to Melanin Deposition in Chicken Muscle Development

This study examines the genetic mechanisms of melanin deposition in the muscle development of Yugan black-boned chickens compared to Wenchang chickens. Using RNA-seq, researchers identified key genes and pathways, such as EDNRB2, GPNMB, TRPM1, TYR, and DCT, that regulate melanin deposition. The study found that melanin begins to appear in Yugan chickens at embryonic day 9 and increases until day 21, while Wenchang chickens show no significant melanin deposition. Gene ontology and KEGG pathway analyses revealed enrichment in pigmentation and melanin biosynthesis processes. The findings provide insights into the molecular mechanisms of muscle hyperpigmentation, which could aid in molecular breeding for enhanced melanin deposition in black-boned chickens.