Transposable Element-Driven PIEZO Mutation Enhances Locust Flight in Plateau Hypoxia

Area of Science:

• Genomics
• Evolutionary Biology
• Population Genetics

Background:

• Transposable elements (TEs) are key drivers of genome evolution, contributing to species diversification and adaptation.
• Understanding the dual role of TEs in microevolution (within species) and macroevolution (among species) remains a challenge due to their complex genomic dynamics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of transposable elements on genome size variation and adaptive evolution in the migratory locust, Locusta migratoria.
• To analyze the genetic divergence of locust populations along an altitudinal gradient and identify TE contributions to altitude adaptation.

Main Methods:

• Genome sequencing and comparative analysis of Locusta migratoria from the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.
• Whole-genome resequencing of 153 individuals across an altitudinal gradient (2–4100 m).
• Analysis of single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) and transposable element insertion polymorphisms to assess genetic divergence and identify adaptive TEs.

Main Results:

• Discovered extensive transposable element-driven genome size variation and lineage-specific TE expansion, particularly the PiggyBac superfamily.
• Confirmed distinct elevational genetic divergence in locust populations, consistent across SNP and TE insertion data.
• Identified 11,869 TE insertions within selective sweeps, including 279 genes linked to altitude adaptation, with five TE superfamilies showing significant micro- and macroevolutionary expansion.

Conclusions:

• Transposable elements are central drivers of genomic evolution across micro- and macroevolutionary scales.
• TEs shape the genomic landscape and promote adaptive change, as exemplified by PiggyBac insertion into the PIEZO gene enhancing flight performance under hypoxia.