Genomic analysis of the impact of fescue XXXX on hepatic function.

@entity18959 @entity8956 @entity35
Fescue @entity8956 is caused by consumption of toxins produced by an endophytic fungus, Neotyphodium coenophialum, in @entity18959 [ @entity18959 ]. Microarray analysis was used to identify shifts in genetic expression associated with the affected physiological processes to identify potential targets for future pharmacological/toxicological intervention. Male @entity35 (n = 24) were implanted with temperature transmitters, which measure core temperature every 5 min. After an 8-d recovery, the @entity35 were fed an endophyte-free diet for 5 d. During the following 5-d treatment period, @entity35 were fed either an endophyte-free or an endophyte-infected (91.5 microg of ergovaline.kg of BW(-1).d(-1)) diet. At the end of treatment, @entity35 were euthanized and a sample of the liver was obtained. Feed conversion efficiency was calculated for both treatment groups. Serum prolactin concentrations were measured using ELISA. Liver tissue RNA was reverse transcribed and hybridized to an oligonucleotide microarray chip. Microarray data were analyzed using a 2-step ANOVA model and validated by quantitative real-time PCR. Significant reductions in mean core temperature, feed intake, feed conversion efficiency, BW, liver weight per unit of BW, and serum prolactin concentrations were observed in endophyte-infected @entity35 . There was downregulation (P < 0.05) of various genes associated with energy metabolism, growth and development, and antioxidant protection, as well as an upregulation of genes associated with gluconeogenesis, detoxification, and biotransformation. This study demonstrated that even short-term exposure of @entity35 to @entity18959 endophytic toxins under thermoneutral conditions can result in physiological responses associated with altered gene expression within the liver.
