New insights into the avian epigenome from high-throughput sequencing experiments

Abstract

Over the years, farmed birds have been genetically selected to improve performance traits. However, many studies have shown that phenotype not only depends on genetics: gene expression is also influenced by the environment, through epigenetic changes that may alter the phenotypes of the animals. Since high-throughput sequencing techniques are extremely developed and becoming less expensive, a growing number of studies have taken advantage of them to gain insights into the epigenetic mechanisms of gene regulation in birds. Here we review the current gain of knowledge on the chicken epigenome, focusing on the two most studied epigenetic modifications (DNA methylation and histone post-translational modifications) based on recent data obtained with high-throughput sequencing techniques. We also provide advice about designing and performing analyses to further explore avian epigenomes. A better understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the epigenetic involvement in bird phenotypes may provide new markers that should undoubtedly contribute to improving the sustainability of poultry production.