RNA-seq analysis reveals the positive role of KLF5 in the differentiation of subcutaneous adipocyte in goats

As the largest energy storage reservoir, subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) stores excess lipids by adipocytes enlargement and/or recruitment of new precursor cells. Energy overload can cause ectopic fat deposition and metabolic diseases. In this study, 6814 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened in goat subcutaneous preadipocytes and mature adipocytes by RNA-seq technique. The relative expression of the DEGs were verified by qPCR, such as PLIN2, MECR, ADCY7, PEBP1 and KLF5, and their expression level was found to be consistent with the trend of RNA-seq analysis. The KLF5 was selected for further functional verification. Overexpression of KLF5 promoted both the adipogenesis and the differentiation of preadipocytes, while the expression of preadipocyte marker gene: preadipocyte factor 1(Pref1) was decreased, as well as, peroxisome proliferator activation Receptor gamma(PPAR gamma), CCAAT enhancer binding protein beta(C/EBP beta) and Sterol regulatory element binding protein isoform 1(SREBP1) were increased. On the contrary, the interference of KLF5 could reduce adipogenesis, enhance the expression of Pref1, and reduce the expression of C/EBP beta and SREBP1. Our research provides a basic reference for revealing the mechanism of subcutaneous adipocyte differentiation in goats.

Automated summary

In this study, 6814 differentially expressed genes were screened in goat subcutaneous preadipocytes and mature adipocytes using RNA-seq technique. The relative expression of the selected genes, such as PLIN2, MECR, ADCY7, PEBP1 and KLF5, was validated by qPCR. KLF5 was found to play a crucial role in adipocyte differentiation and adipogenesis process.