Illustration showing chicken, DNA strands, heat waves. Symbolizing the connection between genetics, heat resistance, and disease resistance.

Unlocking Chicken's Secrets: How Genes Fight Heat and Disease (and What It Means for You)

Reese Marlowe in Science & Nature August 2025 • 4 min read.

"New research reveals the genetic code behind poultry's resilience to heat stress and diseases like Newcastle disease, offering exciting possibilities for a more sustainable and secure food supply."

In a world facing the escalating challenges of climate change and global food security, the humble chicken plays a pivotal role. As a vital source of protein in low- and middle-income countries, chickens often face harsh environmental conditions, including heat stress and disease outbreaks. But what if we could unlock the genetic potential of chickens to thrive in these challenging environments? New research is making significant strides in that direction, offering a glimpse into a future of more resilient and sustainable poultry farming.

Scientists are delving into the genetic makeup of chickens, specifically focusing on their responses to heat and diseases like Newcastle disease virus (NDV). This research could revolutionize poultry farming by enabling the breeding of birds that are naturally more resistant to these stressors. The implications are far-reaching, from improving food security to enhancing the welfare of these essential animals.

This article explores the groundbreaking research that's identifying specific genes and genetic combinations responsible for chickens' ability to cope with heat and NDV. We'll examine the findings, the potential benefits for both the poultry industry and consumers, and what this means for the future of food production.

The Culprit: Heat Stress and Newcastle Disease Virus (NDV)

Illustration showing chicken, DNA strands, heat waves. Symbolizing the connection between genetics, heat resistance, and disease resistance.

Heat stress poses a significant threat to poultry, especially in regions with limited resources. It can negatively impact production, leading to reduced egg-laying, slower growth rates, and increased susceptibility to diseases. Alongside heat, NDV is a major constraint, responsible for significant economic losses and posing a serious threat to poultry farming globally. Understanding how chickens combat these challenges at the genetic level is key to finding effective solutions.

The study focused on a commercial egg-laying line of chickens and exposed them to both heat and NDV. By measuring various responses, the researchers were able to pinpoint the genes and genetic variations that play a crucial role in these responses. This approach is critical because it allows scientists to identify the specific genetic markers associated with resilience.

Heat Stress: Reduces production, growth, and immunity.
NDV: Causes significant economic losses and can wipe out flocks.
Combined Threat: The combination of heat stress and NDV creates a complex challenge for poultry farmers worldwide.

The research examined multiple genes previously linked to immune function, heat response, and disease resistance. The researchers looked at specific SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms) – tiny variations in the DNA sequence – within these genes. They then tested the effects of these variations on the chickens' responses to heat and NDV.

A Promising Future for Chickens and Beyond

The findings from this research provide valuable insights into the genetic mechanisms behind chickens' resilience to heat and disease. These discoveries could lead to developing new breeding strategies for poultry. By identifying and utilizing beneficial genetic traits, farmers can raise chickens that thrive in challenging environments, ultimately leading to a more secure and sustainable food supply. The research underscores the power of genetics and its potential to help overcome critical challenges. It offers hope for improving animal welfare and strengthening food security for future generations.

About this Article -

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This article is based on research published under:

DOI-LINK: 10.3390/genes9110560, Alternate LINK

Title: Association Of Candidate Genes With Response To Heat And Newcastle Disease Virus

Subject: Genetics (clinical)

Journal: Genes

Publisher: MDPI AG

Authors: Kaylee Rowland, Perot Saelao, Ying Wang, Janet Fulton, Grant Liebe, Amy Mccarron, Anna Wolc, Rodrigo Gallardo, Terra Kelly, Huaijun Zhou, Jack Dekkers, Susan Lamont

Published: 2018-11-19

Everything You Need To Know

What specific challenges do chickens face, and why is this research important?

Chickens face significant challenges, including heat stress and diseases like Newcastle disease virus (NDV). Heat stress reduces production, growth, and immunity. NDV causes significant economic losses and can wipe out entire flocks. This research is important because it aims to identify the genetic mechanisms that allow chickens to withstand these challenges. By understanding these mechanisms, scientists can develop strategies to breed chickens that are naturally more resilient, improving food security, animal welfare, and the sustainability of poultry farming.

How are scientists decoding the genetic secrets of chickens to combat heat stress and disease?

Scientists are studying the genetic makeup of chickens, specifically focusing on their responses to heat and Newcastle disease virus (NDV). They are examining the genes involved in immune function, heat response, and disease resistance. Researchers are looking at specific SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms) – tiny variations in the DNA sequence – within these genes. By exposing chickens to heat and NDV and measuring their responses, they can pinpoint the genetic markers associated with resilience. This approach allows them to identify the specific genetic combinations that contribute to a chicken's ability to cope with these stressors.

What is the significance of Newcastle disease virus (NDV) in the context of this research?

Newcastle disease virus (NDV) is a major constraint in poultry farming globally, causing significant economic losses and posing a serious threat to chicken populations. The research aims to understand how chickens genetically combat NDV, alongside heat stress. Identifying the genes that provide resistance to NDV is crucial for breeding programs. Chickens with these genes will be better equipped to survive NDV outbreaks, leading to healthier flocks and a more stable food supply.

What are the potential benefits of this research for the poultry industry and consumers?

The research offers several potential benefits. For the poultry industry, it could lead to developing new breeding strategies. By identifying and utilizing beneficial genetic traits, farmers can raise chickens that thrive in challenging environments, improving production efficiency and reducing economic losses. For consumers, this could translate to a more secure and sustainable food supply, potentially with improved animal welfare. Ultimately, the goal is to breed chickens that are more resistant to heat stress and diseases like Newcastle disease virus (NDV), leading to healthier birds and a more stable and affordable source of protein.

How can this research contribute to global food security and the future of food production?

This research contributes to global food security by focusing on making poultry farming more sustainable and resilient. Chickens are a vital source of protein, especially in low- and middle-income countries. By understanding and harnessing the genetic potential of chickens to withstand heat stress and diseases like Newcastle disease virus (NDV), scientists can ensure a more stable and reliable food supply. Breeding chickens that are naturally more resistant to these stressors means fewer losses due to disease and environmental challenges, ultimately helping to meet the growing global demand for food in a sustainable manner. This offers hope for improving animal welfare and strengthening food security for future generations.