Integrated multi-omics reveals potential regulatory mechanisms of meat quality

We hypothesized that the differences in meat quality stem from breed-specific regulation of muscle metabolic pathways. To explore the molecular mechanisms underlying meat quality differences between Liangshan cattle and Simmental crossbred cattle, we conducted metabolomic and transcriptomic analyses of the <i>longissimus dorsi</i>. Metabolomics revealed that Liangshan cattle exhibited higher l-carnitine levels, which may contribute to enhanced energy metabolism and improved meat quality, as well as a more favorable fatty acid composition. Integrated transcriptomic and metabolomic analysis suggested potential regulatory mechanisms: <i>FASN</i> may enhance fat deposition and tenderness by promoting butanoyl-CoA biosynthesis. Additionally, <i>ALDOC</i>, <i>PFKL</i>, <i>PGAM1</i>, and <i>SDS</i> may modulate citrulline metabolic flux, thereby influencing protein synthesis and promoting lipogenesis. These findings support our hypothesis by clarifying how coordinated gene-metabolite interactions influence meat quality. A potential regulatory model for the genetic-metabolic interaction of beef quality was established, providing a candidate framework for molecular breeding targeting beef quality traits.