Transcriptomic Insights Into the Effects of Tyrosine on Sub-Columbian Plumage in H Line Chickens

This study investigated the effect of tyrosine on melanin production in H-line chicken feathers. Chickens were fed diets with varying tyrosine concentrations, and a 1.0% tyrosine diet significantly increased melanin deposition after 40 days. Transcriptome sequencing of feather follicles from chickens on 0% and 1.0% tyrosine diets revealed 314 differentially expressed genes, with 7 genes linked to melanin-related pathways. Notably, the gene <i>EDNRB2</i> showed peak expression at 10 weeks and was significantly elevated in primary chicken melanocytes with tyrosine supplementation. The study highlights the role of the tyrosine-induced <i>EDNRB2</i> regulatory network in melanin levels, enhancing understanding of tyrosine's molecular impact on chicken plumage.