Examining of IGF2 gene expression in muscular and back fat tissues of Kermani sheep

Insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF2) is a highly conserved peptide partner of insulin/IGF signaling proteins that is involved in cell proliferation, growth, and survival primarily by binding to the insulin receptor (IR) and insulin-like growth factor receptor 1 (IGF1R). The aim of this study was to investigate the expression of IGF2 gene in the back (loin) muscle, humeral muscle, femur (leg) muscle, and back fat tissues of Kermani sheep. After slaughter, tissue samples were taken from three 6-month-old male Kermani sheep lambs. Then total RNA was extracted and after checking its quality and quantity, cDNA was synthesized. Real Time PCR reaction was used to check the relative expression of IGF2 and B-actin genes (internal control gene). Prism and Rotor-Gene Q series software were used to analyze the data obtained from Real Time PCR and calculate the amount of gene expression changes. The results of Real Time PCR curves showed that the IGF2 gene was expressed in all muscle and back fat tissues of Kermani sheep. The highest increase in IGF2 gene expression was related to the back (9.307) and femur (4.569) muscle, respectively. The lowest level of expression was related to back fat tissue (1.124). A significant difference was observed between the back muscle with humeral, back fat and femur muscle tissues (P<0.01). Identifying genes that are related to growth traits and improve meat production, such as the IGF2 gene, is necessary. This study provided a better understanding of IGF2 gene expression in the muscle and back fat tissues.