Fourth Report on Chicken Genes and Chromosomes 2022

The chicken continues to hold its position as a leading model organism within many areas of research, as well as being a major source of protein for human consumption. The First Report on Chicken Genes and Chromosomes [Schmid et al., 2000], which was published in 2000, was the brainchild of the late, and sadly missed, Prof. Michael Schmid of the University of Würzburg. It was a publication bringing together updates on the latest research and resources in chicken genomics and cytogenetics. The success of this first report led to the subsequent publication of the Second [Schmid et al., 2005] and Third Report on Chicken Genes and Chromosomes [Schmid et al., 2015] – each also proving popular references for the research community. It is now our pleasure to be able to introduce publication of the Fourth Report. Being 7 years since the last report, this publication captures the many advances that have taken place during that time. This includes presentation of the detailed genomic resources that are now available, largely due to increasing capabilities of sequencing technologies and which herald the pangenomic age, allowing for a much richer and more complete knowledge of the avian genome. Ongoing cytogenetic work also allows for examination of chromosomes, specific elements within chromosomes, and the evolutionary history and comparison of karyotypes. We also examine chicken research efforts with a much more “global” outlook with a greater impact on food security and the impact of climate change, and highlight the efforts of international consortia, such as the Chicken Diversity Consortium. We dedicate this Report to Michael.