Abstract

Simple Summary Muscovy ducks (Cairina moschata) exhibit strong nesting tendencies, which result in reduced egg-laying performance. Previous studies by our group have shown that the Ras homolog family member B (RHOB) gene is differentially expressed in the ovaries tissue of Muscovy ducks during the nesting and laying periods, and is associated with nesting behavior of Muscovy ducks. This study experimentally demonstratedthat RHOB regulates granulosa cell apoptosis in Muscovy duck follicles via the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway. These findings provide an experimental basis and theoretical foundation for the selective breeding of desirable traits in Muscovy ducks, such as low nesting behavior and high egg production.