Transcriptomic Analysis Provides Insights into Candidate Genes and Molecular Pathways Involved in Growth of <i>Mytilus coruscus</i> Larvae

Abstract

Growth is a fundamental aspect of aquaculture breeding programs, pivotal for successful cultivation. Understanding the mechanisms that govern growth and development differences across various stages can significantly boost seedling production of economically valuable species, thereby enhancing aquaculture efficiency and advancing the aquaculture industry. Mytilus coruscus, a commercially vital marine bivalve, underscores this importance. To decipher the intricate molecular mechanisms dictating growth and developmental disparities in marine shellfish, we conducted transcriptome sequencing and meticulously analyzed gene expression variations and molecular pathways linked to growth traits in M. coruscus. This study delved into the molecular and gene expression variations across five larval development stages, with a specific focus on scrutinizing the differential expression patterns of growth-associated genes using RNA sequencing and quantitative real-time PCR analysis. A substantial number of genes—36,044 differentially expressed genes (DEGs)—exhibited significant differential expression between consecutive developmental stages. These DEGs were then categorized into multiple pathways (Q value M. coruscus larvae. Ten key growth-related genes were pinpointed, each playing crucial roles in molecular function and the regulation of growth traits in M. coruscus. These genes and pathways associated with growth provide deep insights into the molecular basis of physiological adaptation, metabolic processes, and growth variability in marine bivalves.

Keywords

• <i>Mytilus coruscus</i>
• larvae
• transcriptomic
• growth genes
• molecular pathways