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Transcriptome Analysis of Differentially Expressed Genes in Freshwater Pearl Mussel (Sinohyriopsis cumingii) with Four Different Shell Colors

  • 0Institute of Hydrobiology, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou 310021, China.
Animals : an Open Access Journal From Mdpi +

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February 13, 2026

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February 13, 2026

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Shell color variation in freshwater mussels (Sinohyriopsis cumingii) is linked to differences in pigment metabolism genes. This study reveals key genetic factors influencing both shell and pearl coloration in this important aquaculture species.

Area Of Science

  • Aquaculture
  • Genomics
  • Marine Biology

Background

  • Pearl culture is a significant global industry, with China being a major producer using the freshwater mussel (Sinohyriopsis cumingii).
  • Shell color in S. cumingii varies and influences the resulting pearl color, indicating a genetic basis for coloration.
  • Understanding the genetic mechanisms of shell color variation is crucial for advancing pearl quality and production.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To investigate the molecular genetics underlying shell color variation in Sinohyriopsis cumingii.
  • To identify key genes and metabolic pathways involved in the differential coloration of mussel shells and pearls.

Main Methods

  • Transcriptomic analysis was performed on juvenile S. cumingii specimens exhibiting four distinct inner shell colors.
  • Differential gene expression analysis was conducted to identify genes with significant variations across different shell color groups.

Main Results

  • Significant differences were observed in key genes regulating pigment metabolism, including ADAMTS, TYR, BCDO2, and FTH1.
  • Genes associated with metabolism and mineral absorption, such as TRPV6, HCP1, HEPH, and Zip4, also showed significant variations.
  • These differentially expressed genes (DEGs) potentially impact melanin, carotenoid, porphyrin, and heme synthesis and metabolism, affecting shell color.

Conclusions

  • The identified DEGs provide insights into the molecular basis of shell color variation in S. cumingii.
  • These genetic differences are likely responsible for the observed variations in shell coloration and may directly influence the color of pearls produced.
  • This research advances the understanding of shell and pearl coloration mechanisms in freshwater mussels, with implications for aquaculture.

Keywords:

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