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Single-cell transcriptomic analysis reveals genome evolution in predatory litostomatean ciliates.

Zhaorui Zhou1, Chao Li1, Qingxiang Yuan1

  • 1Institute of Evolution & Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China.

European Journal of Protistology
|February 18, 2024
PubMed
Summary

Predatory ciliates evolved unique genetic traits, including expanded gene families for transmembrane activity and calcium-activated potassium channels. These adaptations, alongside whole genome duplications, likely underpin their hunting abilities.

Keywords:
Gene family expansionLitostomateaPredatory ciliatesSingle-cell transcriptome sequencingWhole genome duplication

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Area of Science:

  • Microbiology and Evolutionary Biology
  • Genomics and Molecular Evolution

Background:

  • Ciliated protists, particularly the Litostomatea class, exhibit diverse feeding strategies, including predation on other microorganisms.
  • The evolutionary origins of predation in ciliates are not well understood due to limited genomic data.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the transcriptomic features of predatory litostomateans to understand the genetic basis of their predation.
  • To explore the evolutionary history and genomic adaptations associated with predation in this ciliate group.

Main Methods:

  • Acquisition of transcriptome profiles from six predatory litostomateans using single-cell sequencing technology.
  • Comparative transcriptomic analysis to identify expanded gene families and pathways.
  • Phylogenomic analyses to reconstruct evolutionary relationships among ciliate species.

Main Results:

  • Predatory litostomateans show expanded gene families related to transmembrane activity and oxidative stress response compared to non-predatory relatives.
  • The calcium-activated BK potassium channel gene family expansion is an ancient trait in Litostomatea, suggesting metabolic rewiring for contractility.
  • Three whole genome duplication (WGD) events were identified in litostomateans, with retention of genes involved in biosynthesis, transmembrane activity, and ion channel function.

Conclusions:

  • Expanded gene families and whole genome duplications represent potential genetic underpinnings for the evolution of predation in raptorial ciliates.
  • The study provides a foundational genomic dataset for future research on Litostomatea evolution and predatory adaptations.