Emerging roles of circular RNAs on the regulation of production traits in chicken

Chickens are vital agricultural animals that supply a significant portion of the protein consumed by humans. In society today, enhancing the productive performance of chickens in a safe and efficient manner has become a central focus of research. This performance is determined by various production traits that are primarily influenced by multiple factors, including epigenetics-a critical aspect of gene regulation. Circular RNAs (circRNAs), a unique class of non-coding RNAs, have emerged as key epigenetic regulators. Recent studies have demonstrated that circRNAs are extensively engaged in numerous production traits, which include skeletal muscle formation, fat deposition, ovarian follicle development, liver function, bone development, immunity, and resistance to environmental stress. These processes play crucial roles in determining the overall productivity of chickens. Given the significance of circRNAs in these various traits, this article provides a comprehensive review of the functional circRNAs associated with different traits in chickens, serving as a valuable theoretical reference for future research. Further investigation into the role of circRNAs may reveal novel insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying key economic traits in chickens and pave the way for innovative strategies in molecular breeding aimed at enhancing chicken productive performance.