Adipogenic and energy metabolism gene networks in longissimus lumborum during rapid post-weaning growth in Angus and Angus × Simmental cattle fed high-starch or low-starch diets

Abstract

Results involving gene markers of mature adipocytes (e.g., PPARG, THRSP, SCD) provided evidence of intramuscular adipose tissue differentiation during the early portion of the growing phase. The resulting gene networks underscored a central role for PPARG in controlling transcription of genes which are known to co-ordinately regulate adipocyte differentiation and lipid filling in non-ruminants. Unlike rodents, INSIG1 appears to play an important role in cattle muscle adipogenesis. We propose that a network of transcription regulators and nuclear receptors including PPARG-target genes, INSIG1, and THRSP, coordinate activation of adipocyte differentiation and lipid filling at an early age.