Temporal transcriptome profiling in the response to Riemerella anatipestifer infection in chicken liver

A total of 3245 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified between the control and infection group. Gene Ontology (GO) and KEGG pathway analyses revealed progressive host response trajectory, transitioning from acute pathogen clearance and immune activation to the onset of metabolic dysregulation. The Toll-like receptor signaling pathway, cytokine-cytokine receptor interactions, and the ferroptosis pathway played important roles during RA infection.

Based on weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), three key modules were identified related to immunity, metabolic and signaling-related, respectively. Furthermore, MAPKAPK2, IL4R, and TLR1A may serve as potential molecular markers for RA infection in chicken. These findings indicate hepatitis induced by RA was coordinated by multiple biological systems, primarily involving immunity, inflammation, and energy metabolism.

This study provides the first comprehensive transcriptomic analysis of liver responses to RA infection in chickens, offering new insights into host–pathogen interactions for future strategies to control RA infection in the poultry industry.