SNP variants in the neuropeptide Y gene are associated with egg production traits in Thai native and commercial laying hens.
117 chickensNPY gene SNPs associated with 8 egg production traits across Thai native and commercial breeds
What the researchers found
NPY gene SNP variants were associated with egg production traits including timing of first egg, egg weight, and total production in Thai chickens.
Why it matters
Improving egg production in native breeds through genetic markers preserves biodiversity while enhancing food security.
The numbers in context
N=117 chickens; 6+ SNP loci identified; PIC 0.22-0.50; He 0.26-0.50.
How the study worked
SNP genotyping of NPY gene coding sequence in 117 chickens with phenotypic association analysis for 8 egg production traits.
Who was studied
Thai native chickens and commercial laying hens
What this study cannot tell us
Small sample (117 birds). Association does not prove causation. Results may be breed-specific.
How to read the evidence
Genetic association study — identifies candidate markers but needs validation in larger populations.
When this study was published
Published in 2025, contributing to molecular breeding tools for tropical poultry.
The bigger picture
This connects neuropeptide biology to agricultural genetics, showing how appetite-regulating genes also influence reproductive performance.
Questions still open
- Can NPY markers be used for selective breeding in other poultry species?
- What mechanism links NPY to egg production?
Common questions
How does a brain peptide gene affect egg production?
Can genetics improve egg production in native breeds?
Read the original research
Functional Polymorphisms in the Neuropeptide Y (NPY) Gene Associated with Egg Production in Thai Native, Black-Bone, and Commercial Laying Hens Using SNP Markers.
Animals : an open access journal from MDPI, 15(5)
Citation
Promket, Doungnapa; Kammongkun, Jennarong; Insee, Jiranan; Kenchaiwong, Wootichai; Pengmeesri, Khanitta; Somchan, Thassawan; Boonkum, Wuttigrai. (2025). Functional Polymorphisms in the Neuropeptide Y (NPY) Gene Associated with Egg Production in Thai Native, Black-Bone, and Commercial Laying Hens Using SNP Markers.. Animals : an open access journal from MDPI, 15(5). https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15050744