Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 29, 2026

Using an Automated Cell Counter to Simplify Gene Expression Studies: siRNA Knockdown of IL-4 Dependent Gene Expression in Namalwa Cells
Published on: April 14, 2010
The expression pattern of calcium signaling-related genes during smoltification of Salmo salar in productive
F J Domínguez1, J P Pontigo1, R Oyarzún2
1Instituto de Ciencias Marinas y Limnológicas, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile.
Abstract:
Variations in the mRNA expression of hepatic and muscle genes that are related to calcium signaling were analyzed by real-time qPCR in farmed Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L. 1758) to determine changes in expression between parr and smolt stages. These organs were selected due to their close relationship with calcium signaling and metabolism (e.g., glycolysis, oxidative phosphorylation, muscle contraction). Differential expression between smolt and parr specimens and between organs was observed. Compared to parr specimens, smolts exhibited upregulated expression of the calcitonin receptor precursor, calcitonin receptor, calcitonin isoform, parathyroid hormone, and calmodulin in the liver. This pattern was inverse in muscle, with the exception of calmodulin, which was significantly upregulated in smolts compared to parr. Additionally, plasma calcium was decreased in the smolt condition. This study is the first to characterize the expression pattern of calcium signaling-related genes in the liver and muscle of parr and smolt S. salar. However, further functional studies are required to obtain a wider understanding about the physiological changes that accompany the productive conditions during smoltification.
Related Concept Videos
What is Gene Expression?
Gene expression is the process in which DNA directs the synthesis of functional products, that is, proteins. Cells can regulate gene expression at various stages. It allows organisms to generate different cell types and enables cells to adapt to internal and external factors.
Genetic Information Flows from DNA to RNA to Protein
A gene is a stretch of DNA that serves as the blueprint for functional RNAs and proteins. Since DNA is made up of nucleotides and proteins consist of amino...
What is Gene Expression?
Chromatin Position Affects Gene Expression
Topologically Associated Domains (TADs)
The 3-dimensional positioning of chromatin in the nucleus influences the...
Cell Specific Gene Expression
Cell Specific Gene Expression
mRNA Stability and Gene Expression
Cis-acting Elements involved in mRNA stability

