Identification and Characterization of the Complete Genome of the TGF- Gene Family in : Expression and Function of Adipose Tissue Under Cold Acclimation Conditions.

The transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) gene family is widely distributed across the animal kingdom, playing a crucial role in various cellular processes and maintaining overall health and homeostasis. The present study identified 34 TGF-β family genes based on the genome sequence in , which were classified into the TGF-β, bone morphogenetic protein (BMP), growth differentiation factor (GDF), glial cell-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), and Activin/Inhibin subfamilies. A phylogenetic analysis revealed the evolutionary relationships among members of the TGF-β family in and their homologous genes in , , and , indicating a high degree of conservation throughout evolution. A chromosomal distribution and collinearity analysis demonstrated the localization of these genes within the genome of and their collinearity with genes from other species. A gene structure and motif analysis further illustrated the conservation and diversity among TGF-β family members. A protein interaction network analysis highlighted the central roles of TGFB1, TGFB3, BMP7, and BMP2 in signal transduction. A functional enrichment analysis underscored the significance of the TGF-β signaling pathway in the biological processes of , particularly in cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. We assessed the impact of cold acclimation treatment on the expression of TGF-β family proteins in the adipose tissue (white adipose tissue [WAT] and brown adipose tissue [BAT]) of using ELISA technology, finding that protein expression levels in the experimental group were significantly higher than those of in the control group. These results suggested that cold acclimation may enhance the adaptability of to cold environments by modulating the expression of TGF-β family genes. This study offers new insights into the role of the TGF-β family in the cold acclimation adaptation of , providing a scientific foundation for future genetic improvements and strategies for cold acclimation.