Transcriptome analysis reveals the effects of Schizochytrium sp. on the meat quality attributes of Tan lambs

Schizochytrium sp., a feed additive, positively affects the quality of animal meat. In this study, the molecular mechanisms through which dietary Schizochytrium sp. affects the meat quality characteristics of Tan lambs were investigated using transcriptomic techniques. The findings demonstrate that the lambs supplemented with Schizochytrium sp. had a larger loin eye area and a higher average daily gain and intramuscular fat content (P < 0.05). They also had lower drip loss (at 24 and 48 h) and shear force (P < 0.05). Further, 745 genes were differentially expressed between lambs supplemented with Schizochytrium and the control group. Moreover, KEGG pathway analysis showed that the ECM-receptor interaction pathway, which is related to muscle generation and intramuscular fat deposition, was significantly enriched in the lambs administered a diet containing Schizochytrium sp. Herein, we identified some pivotal genes linked to muscular system development and lipid metabolism. Thus, using Schizochytrium sp. may boost the meat quality of Tan lambs by modifying the expression of genes related to hub pathways. The results supply a new basis to determine the molecular mechanisms through which Schizochytrium sp. supplementation regulates the meat quality characteristics of sheep.