A genome-wide scan to identify signatures of selection in Lueyang black -bone chicken

Lueyang black-bone chicken is a domestic breed in China. The genetic mechanism of the formation of important economic traits of this breed has not been studied systematically. Therefore, in this study, whole genome resequencing was used to systematically analyze and evaluate the genetic diversity of the black-feather and white-feather populations, and to screen and identify key genes related to phenotypes. The results of principal component analysis and population structure analysis showed that Lueyang black-feathered chickens and white-feathered chickens could be divided into 2 subgroups, and the genetic diversity of black-feathered chicken was richer than that of white-feathered chickens. Linkage disequilibrium analysis also showed that the selection intensity of black-feathered chickens was lower than for white-feathered chickens, which was mainly due to the small population size of white-feathered chickens and a certain degree of inbreeding. Fixation index (F(ST)) analysis revealed that the candidate genes related to feather color traits were G-gamma, FA, FERM, Kelch, TGFb, Arf, FERM, and melanin synthesis-related gene tyrosinase (TYR). Based on Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analysis, Jak-STAT, mTOR, and TGF-β signaling pathways were mainly related to melanogenesis and plume color. The findings of this study supported important information for the evaluation and protection of chicken genetic resources and help to analyze the unique genetic phenotypes such as melanin deposition and feather color of Lueyang black-bone chicken. Additionally, it could provide basic research data for the improvement and breeding of Lueyang black-bone chicken with characteristic traits.