Vol. 10, Issue 9, Part A (2025)

Poultry farming is a vital component of Kerala’s livestock sector, contributing substantially to nutrition and rural livelihoods. The Tellicherry chicken, the state’s only recognised indigenous breed, is valued for its adaptability and meat quality, while the Black Australorp is a dual-purpose exotic breed known for productivity. This study investigated the differential expression of three genes CHAC1 (Glutathione Specific Gamma-Glutamylcyclotransferase), A1CF (APOBEC1 Complementation Factor) and FGB (Fibrinogen Beta Chain) in Tellicherry and Australorp chickens. Six male birds (three of each breed) were reared under uniform management and breast muscle tissues were collected at eight weeks of age. Total RNA was extracted, converted to cDNA, and analysed using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) with GAPDH as the reference gene. Relative expression was determined using the 2^-??CT method. CHAC1 was significantly upregulated in Tellicherry chickens compared to Australorps, indicating enhanced oxidative stress adaptation. In contrast, A1CF and FGB were significantly downregulated in Tellicherry chickens, suggesting disruptions in apoB mRNA editing, lipid metabolism, fibrinogen synthesis and extracellular matrix organisation. The upregulation of CHAC1 may confer adaptive advantages in muscle development, while reduced expression of A1CF and FGB could affect tissue repair and stability. The differential expression of these genes highlights breed-specific molecular mechanisms influencing muscle growth and meat quality. These findings provide a basis for utilising CHAC1, A1CF and FGB as potential molecular markers in poultry breeding programmes aimed at improving productivity and adaptability.