Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Date

2024

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Department

Nutrition

Committee Chair

Yufeng Zhang

Committee Member

Marie Van der Merwe

Committee Member

Chidambaram Ramanathan

Abstract

This study examines the conversion of carotenoids to ketocarotenoids, essential for bright plumage in birds, a trait crucial in sexual selection. We used DF-1 avian cells genetically engineered to express BDH1L, CYP2J19, and TTC39B, key enzymes in this conversion. The genetic modifications and enzyme activity were verified via PCR genotyping and RT-qPCR. These cells were treated with yellow carotenoids (zeaxanthin, β-carotene, lutein) and their conversion to red ketocarotenoids (astaxanthin, canthaxanthin, alpha-doradexanthin) was analyzed using High- Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). The study also assessed the impact of antioxidant treatments and mitochondrial uncouplers on this process. Results indicated that the inclusion of TTC39B enhances ketocarotenoid production, with antioxidants further boosting this conversion, while mitochondrial uncouplers showed minimal effect. This research highlights the pivotal roles of BDH1L, CYP2J19, and TTC39B in the bioconversion process, providing insights into the genetics and environmental factors influencing birds' ornamental traits.

Comments

Data is provided by the student.

Library Comment

Dissertation or thesis originally submitted to ProQuest.

Notes

Open Access

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