Transcriptome analysis reveals key genes and regulatory networks underlying intramuscular fat deposition in rabbits.

Background: Intramuscular fat (IMF) is a critical determinant of meat quality in rabbits, influencing attributes such as tenderness, juiciness, and flavor. A moderate increase in IMF content is associated with enhanced meat quality. In this study, we evaluated the growth performance, slaughter performance, and meat quality traits of the longissimus dorsi (LD) muscles in Hycole and Rex rabbits across various growth stages.

Whole-genome sequencing reveals patterns of runs of homozygosity underlying genetic diversity and selection in domestic rabbits.

Background: Runs of homozygosity (ROH) are continuous segments of homozygous genotypes inherited from both parental lineages. These segments arise due to the transmission of identical haplotypes. The genome-wide patterns and hotspot regions of ROH provide valuable insights into genetic diversity, demographic history, and selection trends.

Two novel SNP variants at ASIP and SNAI2 genes are associated with yellow coat color in rabbits.

Rabbits display a wide range of coat colors, with yellow being a particular phenotype that aids in exploring the molecular mechanisms of coat pigmentation. The Fujian yellow (FJY) rabbit, as China's only indigenous breed with a yellow coat, serves as a valuable genetic resource. Fujian yellow rabbits have predominantly yellow fur, with a diluted white hue on the distal limbs and tail.

Exploring the growing phase forest musk deer () dietary energy requirements based on growth performance and gut microbiota analysis.

Unlabelled: The forest musk deer (FMD) farming industry is currently experiencing rapid growth, yet the dietary energy requirements for FMD remain unclear. Therefore, we explored the optimal dietary digestible energy (DE) for growing phase FMD by providing three diets with different DE levels and analyzing changes in gut microbiota. A total of 20 six-month-old FMD were used in a 62-day trial.

A chromosome-level genome assembly of Cape hare (Lepus capensis).

The Cape hare (Lepus capensis) is among the most widely distributed hare species globally, inhabiting extensive regions across Africa, the Middle East, and Central Asia. However, evolutionary and genetic research on L. capensis was seriously impeded by the absence of a reference genome.

Tunable Construction of Chiral Nematic Cellulose Nanocrystals/ZnO Films for Ultra-Sensitive, Recyclable Sensing of Humidity and Ethanol.

The investigation of functional materials derived from sustainable and eco-friendly bioresources has generated significant attention. Herein, nanocomposite films based on chiral nematic cellulose crystals (CNCs) were developed by incorporating xylose and biocompatible ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) via evaporation-induced self-assembly (EISA). The nanocomposite films exhibited iridescent color changes that corresponded to the birefringence phenomenon under polarized light, which was attributed to the formation of cholesteric structures.