Integrative ‘omics’ analysis elucidates the role of the gene <i>ANKRD9</i> in modulating chicken primary myoblast IMP metabolism <i>via</i> the purine metabolic pathway

1. This study used the Chinese local breed, Gushi chicken, as the model to investigate the ankyrin repeat domain 9 (<i>ANKRD9</i>) gene. This focussed on its biological function in muscle development and regulation of inosine monophosphate (IMP), a key flavour metabolite in chicken meat.2. The dynamic expression of <i>ANKRD9</i> in breast muscle tissue was analysed using qRT-PCR. Combined with transcriptomic and metabolomic technologies, the regulatory network of <i>ANKRD9</i> in chicken primary myoblasts (CPM) was elucidated.3. The results indicated that <i>ANKRD9</i> likely affected cellular adhesion and IMP accumulation. The ELISA assays in CPM confirmed that overexpression of <i>ANKRD9</i> significantly inhibited IMP metabolism in myoblasts. This suggested this gene has a key role in the negative regulation of IMP.4. These results highlighted the critical role of <i>ANKRD9</i> in regulating the flavour metabolite IMP. This provides a potential molecular target and theoretical foundation for the breeding of high-quality broilers.