Additive and Dominance Effects Underlying Age-Dependent Performance and Heterosis in Laying Hens

Samenvatting (Engelstalig)

My research focuses on why some chickens lay more eggs and maintain production longer, and why crossbreds outperform their parents. We developed reciprocal crosses between a commercial layer and a Chinese indigenous breed and observed improved egg-laying performance in the crossbreds. I investigated genome-level differences influencing traits up to 100 weeks of age, including egg production, egg weights, and egg quality. I also examined how genes function in the ovary, which plays a crucial role in egg production. By integrating whole-genome sequencing and gene expression data, we identified key genetic variants and genes related to egg-laying performance and heterosis, showing how additive and dominance effects contribute to improved performance. This work will support more efficient and sustainable poultry breeding strategies.