Immune profiles of male giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) during the breeding season

Abstract Background The giant panda ( Ailuropoda melanoleuca ) is a threatened endemic Chinese species and flagship of national global conservation concern. Life history theory proposes that reproduction immunity can be mutually constraining interrelated. Knowledge changes male pandas during the breeding season limited. Results Here, we researched peripheral blood gene expression profiles associated with immunity. Thirteen captive pandas, ranging from 9 to 11 years old, were divided into two groups based on their reproductive status. We identified 318 up-regulated DEGs 43 down-regulated DEGs, which enriched in 87 GO terms 6 KEGG pathways. Additionally, obtained 45 immune-related genes altered expression, mostly up-regulated, four hub HSPA4 , SUGT1 SOD1 IL1B PPI analysis. These related pattern recognition receptors, autophagy, peroxisome, proteasome, natural killer cell, antigen processing presentation. receptors. HSP90AA1 was most member heat shock protein 90 family. HSP90 contributes translocation extracellular antigen. KLRD1 encodes CD94, whose complex an inhibitor cytotoxic activity NK cells, down-regulated. IGIP, has capability inducing IgA production by B down-regulated, suggesting low concentration pandas. Our results suggest more innate immune than adaptive immune. Conclusions indicated presented immunoenhancement immunity, enhanced presentation cellular compared non-breeding males. humoral may show tendency decrease season. This study will provide foundation for further studies