Genomic Organization, Transcriptomic Analysis, and Functional Characterization of Avian Alpha- and Beta-Keratins in Diverse Feather Forms

The study investigated the genomic organization, transcriptomic analysis, and functional characterization of avian α- and β-keratins in diverse feather forms, focusing on chickens. Researchers identified 149 β-keratin genes and 33 putative α-keratin genes, analyzing their expression across five feather types. They found that β-keratin expression varied significantly, contributing to feather diversity, while α-keratin expression was more consistent. Phylogenetic analyses suggested evolutionary adaptations of keratin genes, with β-keratins playing a key role in structural variations. Functional analysis using mutant chicken keratin forms indicated potential for studying human keratin-based diseases. The study highlighted the complexity of avian integumentary systems and the evolutionary history of feathers.