Transcriptomic analysis reveals molecular mechanisms underlying follicle selection in Zi geese/td>

Abstract

This study analyzed transcriptomic differences between SYF and F6 follicles in Zi geese. A total of 4,505 DEGs were identified, indicating strong transcriptional reprogramming during follicle selection. Enriched pathways were related mainly to ECM-receptor interaction, focal adhesion, and neuroactive ligand-receptor signaling, which highlights coordinated regulation of structural remodeling and endocrine signaling. Key genes involved in ECM remodeling (FN1, COL1A1), signaling (SRC, MAPK8), and neuroendocrine regulation (NPY, DRD1) were significantly altered. In addition, genes related to follicular dominance and steroidogenesis (NR5A2, AMH, FST, INHBB) showed marked expression changes, suggesting a shift from inhibitory control to follicular maturation. Overall, follicle selection in geese is driven by integrated ECM, signaling pathways, and endocrine networks, providing candidate genes for improving reproductive performance..