IGF2 in livestock: boosting productivity and enhancing meat quality

The surging global demand for animal protein necessitates sustainable improvements in livestock productivity and meat quality. Insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF2) emerges as a pivotal target for genetic enhancement due to its d role in promoting mitogenesis and inhibiting apoptosis, which are critical for embryonic development and postnatal growth across vertebrates. In agriculture, IGF2 modulates muscle hypertrophy, fat deposition, and feed efficiency, with regulatory mutations linked to enhanced growth traits in pigs, cattle, sheep, and poultry. CRISPR/Cas9-mediated editing of the IGF2 locus has shown promise for improving lean meat yield without compromising quality. However, challenges such as off-target effects, animal welfare concerns, and ethical debates over genome editing remain. This review synthesizes current research on IGF2's biological mechanisms, genetic regulation (e.g., intron3 polymorphisms and epigenetic factors like ZBED6), and translational applications in livestock. By bridging fundamental biology and agricultural innovation, this work highlights IGF2's potential to advance eco-efficient livestock systems while ensuring ethical standards are upheld. Future directions focus on refining genome-editing strategies and elucidating species-specific responses to IGF2 modulation.