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Purifying the Impure: Sequencing Metagenomes and Metatranscriptomes from Complex Animal-associated Samples
Published on: December 22, 2014
Comparative Transcriptomics and Intestinal Microbiome Analysis Provide Insights into the Semi-Terrestrial Adaptation
Zhengfei Wang1, Lijie Cui1,2, Xinyu Wang1
1Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Bioresources of Saline Soils, Jiangsu Synthetic Innovation Center for Coastal, Bio-Agriculture, Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Coastal Wetland Bioresources and Environmental Protection, School of Wetlands, Yancheng Teachers University, Yancheng 224001, China.
Abstract:
Helice tientsinensis, a Grapsidae family member, can adapt to terrestrial and semi-terrestrial environments. This study used transcriptomic and microbiome analyses to explore its adaptation mechanisms. Transcriptome analysis showed gene changes related to cytoskeleton-motor, water-osmotic pressure, and energy metabolism. For example, DST was upregulated in the aquatic environment compared to the semi-terrestrial one, and SPAST was downregulated in some groups. ATP2A and SLC6A3 were upregulated with osmotic regulation, and IDH3 was upregulated when comparing the aquatic and semi-terrestrial habitats; at the same time, many energy-related genes were downregulated between the terrestrial and semi-terrestrial habitats. Regarding the gut microbiota, no significant differences in alpha diversity were found between habitats, but there were differences at the genus level. Pseudomonas and Malaciobacter were more abundant in the aquatic habitat, and Dietzia in the semi-terrestrial one. These results provide insights into H. tientsinensis' terrestrial adaptation, benefiting crustacean evolution study and aquaculture.
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