Background: Although asprosin (ASP) has been extensively researched in mammals, our understanding of its role in avian species remains limited. Objectives: This study represents the first comparative analysis of ASP expression patterns, a recently identified adipokine, in the livers of healthy male and female chickens across two distinct age groups, utilizing immunofluorescence staining techniques. Furthermore, this research is the inaugural report in the literature that establishes a connection between tissue ASP levels and gga-miR-122-1, oxidative status, and biochemical parameters of the liver. Methods: A total of 32 chickens, comprising equal numbers of males and females were selected. The presence of ASP within hepatic tissue was assessed through immunofluorescence staining, revealing varying expression patterns. Results: Notably, age significantly influenced ASP expression in chickens, with tissue ASP levels increasing as the birds aged. The expression of ASP in hepatic tissue exhibited a marked increase in older female birds compared to their male counterparts. This study identified direct positive correlations between ASP and gga-miR-122-1, as well as with MDA, glycogen, triglyceride, and cholesterol levels in the liver of chickens. Conversely, a negative correlation was observed between ASP and SOD levels. Conclusions: The findings of this study highlight the dynamic regulation of hepatic ASP by age and sex in chickens, providing the first evidence linking tissue ASP levels to gga-miR-122-1, oxidative status, and metabolic markers (glycogen, cholesterol, and triglycerides). These novel associations present critical preliminary insights into the potential regulatory mechanisms of ASP in avian liver function, establishing a vital foundation for future functional studies.
