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Expression of RAS-like family members, c-jun and c-myc mRNA levels in neoplastic hemocytes of soft-shell clams Mya
A Siah1, P McKenna2, J M Danger3
1British Columbia Centre for Aquatic Health Sciences, 871A Island Highway, Campbell River, BC, Canada V9W 2C2 ; Department of Pathology & Microbiology, Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, 220 University Avenue, Charlottetown, PEI, Canada C1A 4P3.
Abstract:
The molecular mechanisms by which disseminated neoplasia (DN) is developed in soft shell clams Mya arenaria remain largely unknown. This study aims at quantifying Rho-like GTPase, RAS-Rho, RAS-related C3 botulinum (RAS C3), c-jun as well as c-myc transcript levels in clams sampled at North River (Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada). The transcripts were quantified using multiplex gene analysis (Quantigene(®) 2 Plex, Affymetrix) in 3 groups of clams: (1) Group C (healthy clams considered as control) with a low percentage of tetraploid hemocytes (<10%); (2) Group D (disease in development): individuals presenting a percentage of tetraploid cells ranging between 10% and 50%; (3) Group E (established disease): clams with a high percentage of tetraploid hemocytes (>50%). Data showed a down-regulation of Rho-like GTPase, Rho-like subfamily, RAS C3, c-jun and an up-regulation of c-myc gene expression. It is believed that a deregulation of the expression of these genes could partly unravel the molecular mechanisms involved in the development of DN in soft shell clams Mya arenaria. Further investigations should be pursued to determine the role of these gene products in clams' hemocytes.
Insights
Disseminated neoplasia (DN) in soft shell clams involves altered gene expression. This study found down-regulation of specific GTPases and c-jun, with c-myc up-regulation, suggesting a role in DN development.
Area of Science:
- Marine biology
- Molecular oncology
- Aquatic animal health
Background:
- Disseminated neoplasia (DN) is a fatal transmissible cancer in bivalves.
- The molecular underpinnings of DN development in soft shell clams (Mya arenaria) are not well understood.
- Tetraploid hemocytes are indicative of DN progression in Mya arenaria.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the transcript levels of key genes involved in cell proliferation and regulation in Mya arenaria with varying stages of DN.
- To identify potential molecular markers associated with DN development in soft shell clams.
Main Methods:
- Gene expression analysis using multiplex gene analysis (Quantigene® 2 Plex, Affymetrix).
- Quantification of Rho-like GTPase, RAS-Rho, RAS-related C3 botulinum (RAS C3), c-jun, and c-myc transcripts.
- Comparison of gene expression in healthy clams (Group C), clams with developing DN (Group D), and clams with established DN (Group E).
Main Results:
- Down-regulation of Rho-like GTPase, Rho-like subfamily, RAS C3, and c-jun gene expression was observed.
- Up-regulation of c-myc gene expression was detected in clams with DN.
- Gene expression patterns differed significantly across the three groups, correlating with DN severity.
Conclusions:
- Deregulation of Rho-like GTPase, RAS C3, c-jun, and c-myc gene expression may play a role in the molecular mechanisms of disseminated neoplasia development in Mya arenaria.
- These findings provide insights into the pathogenesis of DN and suggest potential targets for future research.
- Further studies are needed to elucidate the specific functions of these gene products in clam hemocytes during disease progression.
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