Pub Date : 2026-01-26DOI: 10.1016/j.cbd.2026.101757
Yunze Zhang , Yaning Li , Hongtao Nie
Biomineralization in mollusks, particularly shell formation and repair, is a dynamic process mediated by shell matrix proteins and tightly regulated gene expression. In this study, we investigated the temporal transcriptomic profiles of mantle tissue in the Manila clam (Ruditapes philippinarum) during shell repair. Experimental shells were artificially damaged in a V-shaped pattern, and regeneration was monitored at short-term (48 h), long-term (18 d), and control group (cn) using RNA-seq and qPCR analysis. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed a sequential reconstruction of the periostracum, prismatic, and nacreous layer, reflecting the temporal organization of mineral deposition. Transcriptomic analysis identified stage-specific differentially expressed genes (350 in m48h vs cn, 163 in m18d vs cn, and 119 in m48h vs m18d) enriched in pathways associated with tyrosine metabolism, chitin biosynthesis, and extracellular matrix (ECM) regulation. Early-stage repair was characterized by rapid upregulation of Pif, Tem, and chitin-binding domain genes, facilitating the formation of organic scaffolds for CaCO₃ crystallization. In later stages, DPT downregulation and reduced ECM-related gene expression, alongside sustained Pif activity, suggest a regulatory mechanism to balance ECM assembly and mineralization. Additionally, upregulation of Pax7 and tyrosine metabolism genes indicates an integration of biomineralization processes with shell structural repair. These findings provide new insights into the molecular networks orchestrating bivalve shell regeneration and identify potential genetic targets for strengthening shell robustness in aquaculture and enhancing resilience to environmental stressors such as ocean acidification.
{"title":"Transcriptomic analysis of the mantle of Manila clam Ruditapes philippinarum reveals the molecular basis of biomineralization during shell regeneration","authors":"Yunze Zhang , Yaning Li , Hongtao Nie","doi":"10.1016/j.cbd.2026.101757","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.cbd.2026.101757","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Biomineralization in mollusks, particularly shell formation and repair, is a dynamic process mediated by shell matrix proteins and tightly regulated gene expression. In this study, we investigated the temporal transcriptomic profiles of mantle tissue in the Manila clam (<em>Ruditapes philippinarum</em>) during shell repair. Experimental shells were artificially damaged in a V-shaped pattern, and regeneration was monitored at short-term (48 h), long-term (18 d), and control group (cn) using RNA-seq and qPCR analysis. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed a sequential reconstruction of the periostracum, prismatic, and nacreous layer, reflecting the temporal organization of mineral deposition. Transcriptomic analysis identified stage-specific differentially expressed genes (350 in m48h vs cn, 163 in m18d vs cn, and 119 in m48h vs m18d) enriched in pathways associated with tyrosine metabolism, chitin biosynthesis, and extracellular matrix (ECM) regulation. Early-stage repair was characterized by rapid upregulation of <em>Pif</em>, <em>Tem</em>, and chitin-binding domain genes, facilitating the formation of organic scaffolds for CaCO₃ crystallization. In later stages, <em>DPT</em> downregulation and reduced ECM-related gene expression, alongside sustained <em>Pif</em> activity, suggest a regulatory mechanism to balance ECM assembly and mineralization. Additionally, upregulation of <em>Pax7</em> and tyrosine metabolism genes indicates an integration of biomineralization processes with shell structural repair. These findings provide new insights into the molecular networks orchestrating bivalve shell regeneration and identify potential genetic targets for strengthening shell robustness in aquaculture and enhancing resilience to environmental stressors such as ocean acidification.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":55235,"journal":{"name":"Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology D-Genomics & Proteomics","volume":"58 ","pages":"Article 101757"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2026-01-26","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146077409","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"生物学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-26DOI: 10.1016/j.cbd.2026.101761
Yuhan Liu , Zhenhua Han , Xiulin Chen , Xiaopei Fan , Shaoqiu Ren , Qi Yang , Guangwei Li , Boliao Li
Lipases are indispensable for animal digestion. Insects rely on lipases to catabolize lipids from food in immature stages, and to break down TAGs in adults that accumulated earlier in fat body to supply flight and reproduction. The oriental armyworm, Mythimna separata Walker (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), is a migratory moth that damages crops and pastures in East Asia. We identified 85 lipases from the genome of M. separata, including 56 neutral lipases, 22 acid lipases, one lipase 3, one hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL), one lipase with Gly-Asp-Ser-Leu motif (GDSL), and four adipose-triglyceride lipases (ATGLs). The phylogeny, catalytic capacity, and expression of neutral and acid lipases were investigated. The majority of neutral and acid lipases contain the conserved GXLXG nucleophilic elbow, a Ser-Asp-His triad, and an active lid/flap, although the length of active site lids from neutral lipases was short (< 18 residues) compared to pancreatic lipases from mammals. The results of expression analyses indicated that about half of neutral lipases and 35% of acid lipases were highly expressed in 3rd instar larvae compared to egg, pre-pupal, pupal and adult stage. Our findings could contribute to a better understanding of the lipase family gene in moth species.
{"title":"Genome-wide identification of lipases in the oriental armyworm, Mythimna separata Walker (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)","authors":"Yuhan Liu , Zhenhua Han , Xiulin Chen , Xiaopei Fan , Shaoqiu Ren , Qi Yang , Guangwei Li , Boliao Li","doi":"10.1016/j.cbd.2026.101761","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.cbd.2026.101761","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Lipases are indispensable for animal digestion. Insects rely on lipases to catabolize lipids from food in immature stages, and to break down TAGs in adults that accumulated earlier in fat body to supply flight and reproduction. The oriental armyworm, <em>Mythimna separata</em> Walker (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), is a migratory moth that damages crops and pastures in East Asia. We identified 85 lipases from the genome of <em>M. separata</em>, including 56 neutral lipases, 22 acid lipases, one lipase 3, one hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL), one lipase with Gly-Asp-Ser-Leu motif (GDSL), and four adipose-triglyceride lipases (ATGLs). The phylogeny, catalytic capacity, and expression of neutral and acid lipases were investigated. The majority of neutral and acid lipases contain the conserved GXLXG nucleophilic elbow, a Ser-Asp-His triad, and an active lid/flap, although the length of active site lids from neutral lipases was short (< 18 residues) compared to pancreatic lipases from mammals. The results of expression analyses indicated that about half of neutral lipases and 35% of acid lipases were highly expressed in 3rd instar larvae compared to egg, pre-pupal, pupal and adult stage. Our findings could contribute to a better understanding of the lipase family gene in moth species.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":55235,"journal":{"name":"Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology D-Genomics & Proteomics","volume":"58 ","pages":"Article 101761"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2026-01-26","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146077501","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"生物学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-23DOI: 10.1016/j.cbd.2026.101763
Jiantao Yao , Xiaojie Sun , Zexin Huang , Yan Li , Qihao Luo , Weijun Wang , Guohua Sun , Xiaohui Xu , Zan Li , Bin Li , Cuiju Cui , Qiang Wang , Jianmin Yang , Yanwei Feng
Amphioctopus fangsiao is an economically important cephalopod species in northern China. A notable reproductive adaptation of this species is the prolonged storage of sperm in the female spermatheca for up to 8 months post-mating, until oocyte maturation and release. Spermathecal fluid, as a critical component of the microenvironment directly interacting with stored sperm, is essential for maintaining sperm long-term viability and fertilizing capacity. To explore the regulatory mechanism of the A. fangsiao spermathecal microenvironment during sperm storage, this study employed data-independent acquisition (DIA)-based quantitative proteomic to compare changes in protein expression between spermathecal fluid with stored sperm and without stored sperm. A total number of 3195 proteins were identified in the two groups, and 200 differentially expressed proteins were screened — 94 upregulated, 106 downregulated in spermathecal fluid with stored sperm. Functional enrichment analysis revealed that these DEPs were mainly involved in metabolic processes, antioxidant activity, and immune system processes, with significant enrichment in the glycolysis/gluconeogenesis and TCA cycle pathways. After sperm storage, glycolysis-related enzymes (PGK1, PGM1, ADPGK, ENO1) in the spermathecal fluid were significantly upregulated, while TCA cycle-related enzymes (SUCLG, IDH3) and dephosphorylases (ACP1) were significantly downregulated. This suggests that the energy supply mode in the spermatheca may shift from TCA cycle to glycolysis-dominated anaerobic metabolism to reduce the production of reactive oxygen species. Meanwhile, the dynamic expression of antioxidant proteins (TALDO1, PHGDH, UROD) may synergistically protect sperm from oxidative stress, and the downregulation of immune factors (IL17, PNP) may inhibit local immune responses to prevent stored sperm from being attacked. This study demonstrates that spermathecal fluid may ensure sperm viability through three aspects: altering energy metabolism modes, providing antioxidant defense, and suppressing immune responses. These results contribute to a deeper understanding of the sperm storage mechanism of A. fangsiao and provide a scientific basis for developing sperm storage technology in vitro.
{"title":"Proteomic analysis of spermathecal fluid in Amphioctopus fangsiao: molecular insights into long-term sperm storage","authors":"Jiantao Yao , Xiaojie Sun , Zexin Huang , Yan Li , Qihao Luo , Weijun Wang , Guohua Sun , Xiaohui Xu , Zan Li , Bin Li , Cuiju Cui , Qiang Wang , Jianmin Yang , Yanwei Feng","doi":"10.1016/j.cbd.2026.101763","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.cbd.2026.101763","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div><em>Amphioctopus fangsiao</em> is an economically important cephalopod species in northern China. A notable reproductive adaptation of this species is the prolonged storage of sperm in the female spermatheca for up to 8 months post-mating, until oocyte maturation and release. Spermathecal fluid, as a critical component of the microenvironment directly interacting with stored sperm, is essential for maintaining sperm long-term viability and fertilizing capacity. To explore the regulatory mechanism of the <em>A. fangsiao</em> spermathecal microenvironment during sperm storage, this study employed data-independent acquisition (DIA)-based quantitative proteomic to compare changes in protein expression between spermathecal fluid with stored sperm and without stored sperm. A total number of 3195 proteins were identified in the two groups, and 200 differentially expressed proteins were screened — 94 upregulated, 106 downregulated in spermathecal fluid with stored sperm. Functional enrichment analysis revealed that these DEPs were mainly involved in metabolic processes, antioxidant activity, and immune system processes, with significant enrichment in the glycolysis/gluconeogenesis and TCA cycle pathways. After sperm storage, glycolysis-related enzymes (PGK1, PGM1, ADPGK, ENO1) in the spermathecal fluid were significantly upregulated, while TCA cycle-related enzymes (SUCLG, IDH3) and dephosphorylases (ACP1) were significantly downregulated. This suggests that the energy supply mode in the spermatheca may shift from TCA cycle to glycolysis-dominated anaerobic metabolism to reduce the production of reactive oxygen species. Meanwhile, the dynamic expression of antioxidant proteins (TALDO1, PHGDH, UROD) may synergistically protect sperm from oxidative stress, and the downregulation of immune factors (IL17, PNP) may inhibit local immune responses to prevent stored sperm from being attacked. This study demonstrates that spermathecal fluid may ensure sperm viability through three aspects: altering energy metabolism modes, providing antioxidant defense, and suppressing immune responses. These results contribute to a deeper understanding of the sperm storage mechanism of <em>A. fangsiao</em> and provide a scientific basis for developing sperm storage technology in vitro<em>.</em></div></div>","PeriodicalId":55235,"journal":{"name":"Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology D-Genomics & Proteomics","volume":"58 ","pages":"Article 101763"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2026-01-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146077500","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"生物学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-23DOI: 10.1016/j.cbd.2026.101762
Xiufeng Fang , Yuexuan Wang , Renjie Yu , Dekun Tang , Zihan Li , Qiwei Qin , Shina Wei
In the context of increasing freshwater scarcity and the effects of climate change on aquatic environments, developing salt-tolerant fish strains has become a critical strategy for sustainable aquaculture. The limited availability of suitable species for saline-water aquaculture poses a significant challenge, severely impacting the development of the fishery economy. This study investigated the effects of 24 h exposure to freshwater, and seawater at salinities of 4, 9 ppt and 12 ppt, on juvenile grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella). Following these exposures, liver tissues were collected to assess physiological and biochemical indicators, as well as transcriptional and metabolic responses. Histological examination revealed that liver structure was compromised after 24 h of exposure to 9 ppt and 12 ppt salt stress. Concurrently, we observed a decrease in the levels of Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), whereas the levels of Malondialdehyde (MDA) exhibited an increase. Salinity exposure significantly altered the levels of 120 metabolic products (67% of which were lipid and lipophilic molecules) and the transcriptional expression of 1005 genes. Metabolomic analysis indicated that most of the significantly different metabolites were associated with the metabolism of lipids and amino acids. Transcriptome analysis revealed significant enrichment of 20 metabolic pathways, including glutathione metabolism, lipid digestion and absorption, bile secretion, glycerolipid metabolism, and the tricarboxylic acid cycle. Comprehensive multi-omics analysis revealed significant alterations in key metabolic pathways, including glycerophospholipid metabolism, α-linolenic acid metabolism, histidine metabolism, and β-alanine metabolism, along with several vital genes such as HO-1, NQO1, GCLM, and GSS, under salt stress. These changes closely correlate with variations in cellular membrane lipid composition and antioxidant activity. Further analysis demonstrated that acute salt stress induces oxidative damage in the liver, leading to lipid imbalance and oxidative stress. This is evidenced by impaired antioxidant function and disruptions in amino acid and fatty acid metabolism. Moreover, carnosine synthesis in liver tissue occurs via the activation of histidine and β-alanine metabolic pathways, leading to the upregulation of CNDP2. This process plays a crucial role in regulating lipid metabolism and redox homeostasis, effectively mitigating the damage caused by acute salinity stress. In summary, these findings provide a deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying salt stress responses in grass carp and offer valuable insights for the breeding of salt-tolerant strains of grass carp.
{"title":"A multi-omics investigation reveals the hepatic response to salinity stress in grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella)","authors":"Xiufeng Fang , Yuexuan Wang , Renjie Yu , Dekun Tang , Zihan Li , Qiwei Qin , Shina Wei","doi":"10.1016/j.cbd.2026.101762","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.cbd.2026.101762","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>In the context of increasing freshwater scarcity and the effects of climate change on aquatic environments, developing salt-tolerant fish strains has become a critical strategy for sustainable aquaculture. The limited availability of suitable species for saline-water aquaculture poses a significant challenge, severely impacting the development of the fishery economy. This study investigated the effects of 24 h exposure to freshwater, and seawater at salinities of 4, 9 ppt and 12 ppt, on juvenile grass carp (<em>Ctenopharyngodon idella</em>). Following these exposures, liver tissues were collected to assess physiological and biochemical indicators, as well as transcriptional and metabolic responses. Histological examination revealed that liver structure was compromised after 24 h of exposure to 9 ppt and 12 ppt salt stress. Concurrently, we observed a decrease in the levels of Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), whereas the levels of Malondialdehyde (MDA) exhibited an increase. Salinity exposure significantly altered the levels of 120 metabolic products (67% of which were lipid and lipophilic molecules) and the transcriptional expression of 1005 genes. Metabolomic analysis indicated that most of the significantly different metabolites were associated with the metabolism of lipids and amino acids. Transcriptome analysis revealed significant enrichment of 20 metabolic pathways, including glutathione metabolism, lipid digestion and absorption, bile secretion, glycerolipid metabolism, and the tricarboxylic acid cycle. Comprehensive multi-omics analysis revealed significant alterations in key metabolic pathways, including glycerophospholipid metabolism, α-linolenic acid metabolism, histidine metabolism, and β-alanine metabolism, along with several vital genes such as <em>HO-1, NQO1, GCLM,</em> and <em>GSS,</em> under salt stress. These changes closely correlate with variations in cellular membrane lipid composition and antioxidant activity. Further analysis demonstrated that acute salt stress induces oxidative damage in the liver, leading to lipid imbalance and oxidative stress. This is evidenced by impaired antioxidant function and disruptions in amino acid and fatty acid metabolism. Moreover, carnosine synthesis in liver tissue occurs via the activation of histidine and β-alanine metabolic pathways, leading to the upregulation of CNDP2. This process plays a crucial role in regulating lipid metabolism and redox homeostasis, effectively mitigating the damage caused by acute salinity stress. In summary, these findings provide a deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying salt stress responses in grass carp and offer valuable insights for the breeding of salt-tolerant strains of grass carp.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":55235,"journal":{"name":"Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology D-Genomics & Proteomics","volume":"58 ","pages":"Article 101762"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2026-01-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146077499","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"生物学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-21DOI: 10.1016/j.cbd.2026.101759
Zhi Yang , Wei Zhang , Wenyuan Lai
Transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channels play crucial roles in mediating responses to environmental stimuli. In this study, we identified 64 TRP genes from 6 subfamilies in the Urechis unicinctus genome and characterized their genomic locations, gene structures, and basic physicochemical properties. We also analyzed their expression across various developmental stages, tissues, and environmental conditions. The results revealed that TRP gene expression varied throughout development and exhibited distinct tissue-specific patterns. Notably, we identified 20 TRP genes as putative transcriptional memory genes following sulfide stress and another 7 as temperature-sensitive. We also found that both short-term drought and ultraviolet radiation affected the expression of TRP genes in U. unicinctus. Our pharmacological experiments suggested that TRPC5 is positively involved in the immune response of U. unicinctus. Furthermore, TRPC5-mediated immunoenhancement correlated with increased weight gain and a higher visceral index. Collectively, our findings provide a valuable foundation for future research into the functional roles of TRP channels in U. unicinctus.
{"title":"Identification and expression of transient receptor potential (TRP) genes in Urechis unicinctus and the role of TRPC5 in immune response","authors":"Zhi Yang , Wei Zhang , Wenyuan Lai","doi":"10.1016/j.cbd.2026.101759","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.cbd.2026.101759","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channels play crucial roles in mediating responses to environmental stimuli. In this study, we identified 64 TRP genes from 6 subfamilies in the <em>Urechis unicinctus</em> genome and characterized their genomic locations, gene structures, and basic physicochemical properties. We also analyzed their expression across various developmental stages, tissues, and environmental conditions. The results revealed that TRP gene expression varied throughout development and exhibited distinct tissue-specific patterns. Notably, we identified 20 TRP genes as putative transcriptional memory genes following sulfide stress and another 7 as temperature-sensitive. We also found that both short-term drought and ultraviolet radiation affected the expression of TRP genes in <em>U. unicinctus</em>. Our pharmacological experiments suggested that TRPC5 is positively involved in the immune response of <em>U. unicinctus</em>. Furthermore, TRPC5-mediated immunoenhancement correlated with increased weight gain and a higher visceral index. Collectively, our findings provide a valuable foundation for future research into the functional roles of TRP channels in <em>U. unicinctus</em>.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":55235,"journal":{"name":"Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology D-Genomics & Proteomics","volume":"58 ","pages":"Article 101759"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2026-01-21","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146022426","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"生物学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-21DOI: 10.1016/j.cbd.2026.101760
Shuai Han , Yue Zhu , Yaoran Fan , Xuan Zhang , Haopeng Hu , Fengbiao Wang , Longyu Liu , Jinmeng Bao , Lei Li , Mei Jiang
As the social economy develops and living standards improve, electricity use by businesses and residents has steadily increased, resulting in more and larger thermal and nuclear power plants. Thermal discharge from coastal power plants not only introduced residual chlorine but also elevated the temperature of adjacent seawater, thereby threatening marine ecosystems, particularly benthic mollusks. However, studies investigating the molecular mechanisms associated with immunity and antioxidation in clams (Meretrix meretrix) under the combined thermal and residual chlorine stress remained scarce. Hence, a comparative transcriptomic approach with multiple stress gradients was used to detect the potential molecular mechanism. In this study, the control group was maintained at 26 °C without residual chlorine, while M. meretrix were exposed to combined stress of different temperatures (27 °C, 28 °C, 30 °C) and 0.02 mg/L residual chlorine for 30 days, and the hepatopancreas were subjected to transcriptomic analysis. The results identified 654 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), which were primarily enriched in amino acid metabolism, metabolism of cofactors and vitamins, lipid metabolism, carbohydrate metabolism, and energy pathways, including metabolism, transport and catabolism, and signal transduction. Thermal and residual chlorine stress significantly downregulated the expression of immune-related genes across all groups, including those involved in signal transduction, prophenoloxidase cascade, apoptosis, and pattern recognition proteins/receptors. Furthermore, thermal and residual chlorine stress significantly influenced the expression of antioxidant-related genes, including glutathione S-transferase (GST) and heat shock protein 70 (HSP70). Moreover, a weighted co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) analysis was conducted to detect DEGs, involving Hspa12b, CASP3, Prdx1, CYP10, CYP2C16, and txn. Generally, this study provided valuable insights into the effects of combined thermal and residual chlorine stress on the immune and antioxidant functions of the M. meretrix, laying a foundation for understanding its adaptive mechanisms and guiding ecological risk mitigation in coastal aquaculture.
{"title":"Transcriptomic and WGCNA analysis of immune and antioxidant responses in Meretrix meretrix under combined thermal and residual chlorine stress","authors":"Shuai Han , Yue Zhu , Yaoran Fan , Xuan Zhang , Haopeng Hu , Fengbiao Wang , Longyu Liu , Jinmeng Bao , Lei Li , Mei Jiang","doi":"10.1016/j.cbd.2026.101760","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.cbd.2026.101760","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>As the social economy develops and living standards improve, electricity use by businesses and residents has steadily increased, resulting in more and larger thermal and nuclear power plants. Thermal discharge from coastal power plants not only introduced residual chlorine but also elevated the temperature of adjacent seawater, thereby threatening marine ecosystems, particularly benthic mollusks. However, studies investigating the molecular mechanisms associated with immunity and antioxidation in clams (<em>Meretrix meretrix</em>) under the combined thermal and residual chlorine stress remained scarce. Hence, a comparative transcriptomic approach with multiple stress gradients was used to detect the potential molecular mechanism. In this study, the control group was maintained at 26 °C without residual chlorine, while <em>M. meretrix</em> were exposed to combined stress of different temperatures (27 °C, 28 °C, 30 °C) and 0.02 mg/L residual chlorine for 30 days, and the hepatopancreas were subjected to transcriptomic analysis. The results identified 654 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), which were primarily enriched in amino acid metabolism, metabolism of cofactors and vitamins, lipid metabolism, carbohydrate metabolism, and energy pathways, including metabolism, transport and catabolism, and signal transduction. Thermal and residual chlorine stress significantly downregulated the expression of immune-related genes across all groups, including those involved in signal transduction, prophenoloxidase cascade, apoptosis, and pattern recognition proteins/receptors. Furthermore, thermal and residual chlorine stress significantly influenced the expression of antioxidant-related genes, including glutathione S-transferase (<em>GST</em>) and heat shock protein 70 (<em>HSP70</em>). Moreover, a weighted co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) analysis was conducted to detect DEGs, involving <em>Hspa12b</em>, <em>CASP3</em>, <em>Prdx1</em>, <em>CYP10</em>, <em>CYP2C16</em>, and <em>txn</em>. Generally, this study provided valuable insights into the effects of combined thermal and residual chlorine stress on the immune and antioxidant functions of the <em>M. meretrix</em>, laying a foundation for understanding its adaptive mechanisms and guiding ecological risk mitigation in coastal aquaculture.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":55235,"journal":{"name":"Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology D-Genomics & Proteomics","volume":"58 ","pages":"Article 101760"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2026-01-21","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146077503","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"生物学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-20DOI: 10.1016/j.cbd.2026.101756
Yufei Liu , Zonglin Yang , Min Zhang , Xiaowu Chen , Xiaodong Jiang
The Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis) is a commercially important aquaculture species in China, with its survival highly vulnerable to abnormal water pH. This study subjected E. sinensis to chronic high-pH stress (control: pH = 8; experimental groups: pH = 9 and pH = 10) and integrated hepatopancreas transcriptomic/metabolomic analyses with intestinal microbiota 16S rRNA sequencing to explore its adaptive mechanisms. The results revealed distinct adaptive strategies across stress phases: under short-term (15 days) high-pH stress, E. sinensis maintained somatic homeostasis mainly via rapid regulation of carbohydrate, lipid, protein metabolism, and energy allocation. In contrast, long-term (30 days) stress drove a strategic shift toward accelerated lipid catabolism, enhanced energy metabolism, and activated immune-related pathways. Additionally, high-pH stress significantly altered the intestinal microbiota community structure, marked by increased abundances of Proteobacteria and Pseudomonas, indicating a potential risk of microbial dysbiosis. Collectively, these findings elucidate the physiological adaptation mechanisms of E. sinensis to high-pH environments and lay a theoretical foundation for improving the sustainability of its aquaculture under extreme pH conditions.
{"title":"Response mechanisms of hepatopancreatic metabolism and gut microbiota in Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis) under chronic high-pH stress","authors":"Yufei Liu , Zonglin Yang , Min Zhang , Xiaowu Chen , Xiaodong Jiang","doi":"10.1016/j.cbd.2026.101756","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.cbd.2026.101756","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The Chinese mitten crab (<em>Eriocheir sinensis</em>) is a commercially important aquaculture species in China, with its survival highly vulnerable to abnormal water pH. This study subjected <em>E. sinensis</em> to chronic high-pH stress (control: pH = 8; experimental groups: pH = 9 and pH = 10) and integrated hepatopancreas transcriptomic/metabolomic analyses with intestinal microbiota 16S rRNA sequencing to explore its adaptive mechanisms. The results revealed distinct adaptive strategies across stress phases: under short-term (15 days) high-pH stress, <em>E. sinensis</em> maintained somatic homeostasis mainly via rapid regulation of carbohydrate, lipid, protein metabolism, and energy allocation. In contrast, long-term (30 days) stress drove a strategic shift toward accelerated lipid catabolism, enhanced energy metabolism, and activated immune-related pathways. Additionally, high-pH stress significantly altered the intestinal microbiota community structure, marked by increased abundances of Proteobacteria and Pseudomonas, indicating a potential risk of microbial dysbiosis. Collectively, these findings elucidate the physiological adaptation mechanisms of <em>E. sinensis</em> to high-pH environments and lay a theoretical foundation for improving the sustainability of its aquaculture under extreme pH conditions.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":55235,"journal":{"name":"Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology D-Genomics & Proteomics","volume":"58 ","pages":"Article 101756"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2026-01-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146022553","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"生物学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-20DOI: 10.1016/j.cbd.2026.101758
Na Sheng , Yongchuang Li , Yongqing Wang , Zheyan Chen , Xilei Li , Xianji Tao , Jiale Li , Jianbin Feng
The red swamp crayfish, Procambarus clarkii, is a commercially significant crustacean species for aquaculture globally. Growth traits are of great importance for economic efficiency in the aquaculture of the species. However, the molecular mechanisms of regulating growth rate in P. clarkii remain poorly understood. Here, to identify the hub genes and key pathways related to growth rate, transcriptome sequencing and Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) were conducted on the gill, heart, hepatopancreas, intestine, and muscle from P. clarkii with different growth rate in three full-sib families. A total of 906 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the gill (95 up-regulated and 811 down-regulated), 1042 DEGs in the heart (45 up-regulated and 997 down-regulated), 257 DEGs in the hepatopancreas (80 up-regulated and 177 down-regulated), 691 DEGs in the intestine (174 up-regulated and 517 down-regulated), and 158 DEGs in the muscle (30 up-regulated and 128 down-regulated) were identified, respectively. The DEGs were annotated into 101 GO terms, which mainly involved in chitin binding, structural components of the stratum corneum, extracellular region and extracellular space. Nine key pathways including the Wnt signaling pathway, autophagy-animal, phagosome, amino sugar and nucleotide sugar metabolism, TGF-β signaling pathway, drug metabolism-other enzymes, mTOR signaling pathway, lysine degradation, and lysosome pathway were identified based on the KEGG enrichment analysis. A hub module was identified by WGCNA analysis. The hub genes related to structural composition, such as cuticle protein 7-like and pro-resilin, as well as genes involved in various cellular processes, like ataxin-2 homolog were identified based on the PPI network analysis. Overall, the results would provide valuable insights into understanding the molecular regulatory mechanisms of growth rate of P. clarkii.
{"title":"Identification of candidate hub genes and key pathways related to growth rate of the red swamp crayfish based on WGCNA analysis","authors":"Na Sheng , Yongchuang Li , Yongqing Wang , Zheyan Chen , Xilei Li , Xianji Tao , Jiale Li , Jianbin Feng","doi":"10.1016/j.cbd.2026.101758","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.cbd.2026.101758","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The red swamp crayfish, <em>Procambarus clarkii</em>, is a commercially significant crustacean species for aquaculture globally. Growth traits are of great importance for economic efficiency in the aquaculture of the species. However, the molecular mechanisms of regulating growth rate in <em>P. clarkii</em> remain poorly understood. Here, to identify the hub genes and key pathways related to growth rate, transcriptome sequencing and Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) were conducted on the gill, heart, hepatopancreas, intestine, and muscle from <em>P. clarkii</em> with different growth rate in three full-sib families. A total of 906 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the gill (95 up-regulated and 811 down-regulated), 1042 DEGs in the heart (45 up-regulated and 997 down-regulated), 257 DEGs in the hepatopancreas (80 up-regulated and 177 down-regulated), 691 DEGs in the intestine (174 up-regulated and 517 down-regulated), and 158 DEGs in the muscle (30 up-regulated and 128 down-regulated) were identified, respectively. The DEGs were annotated into 101 GO terms, which mainly involved in chitin binding, structural components of the stratum corneum, extracellular region and extracellular space. Nine key pathways including the Wnt signaling pathway, autophagy-animal, phagosome, amino sugar and nucleotide sugar metabolism, TGF-β signaling pathway, drug metabolism-other enzymes, mTOR signaling pathway, lysine degradation, and lysosome pathway were identified based on the KEGG enrichment analysis. A hub module was identified by WGCNA analysis. The hub genes related to structural composition, such as <em>cuticle protein 7-like</em> and <em>pro-resilin</em>, as well as genes involved in various cellular processes, like <em>ataxin-2 homolog</em> were identified based on the PPI network analysis. Overall, the results would provide valuable insights into understanding the molecular regulatory mechanisms of growth rate of <em>P. clarkii</em>.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":55235,"journal":{"name":"Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology D-Genomics & Proteomics","volume":"58 ","pages":"Article 101758"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2026-01-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146022557","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"生物学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-20DOI: 10.1016/j.cbd.2026.101753
Tao Zhu , Zhu Zhu , Shengjie Li , Jing Tian , Caixia Lei , Jinxing Du , Hongmei Song
Salinity profoundly impacts fish survival, distribution, and physiological functions. Grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella), a vital aquaculture species, offers a representative model to investigate salinity adaptation mechanisms, providing crucial theoretical support for aquaculture practices. While the liver is a key metabolic organ in fish salinity adaptation, its specific regulatory role in the high-salinity tolerance of grass carp remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the effects of long-term salinity stress (0parts per thousand [ppt], 4 ppt, and 8 for one month) on grass carp liver. At 4 ppt salinity, mild hepatocyte edema and acinar cell hyperplasia were observed, while at 8 ppt salinity, irregular hepatocyte shapes, dilated hepatic sinusoids, and focal inflammatory cell infiltration were detected. Transcriptome sequencing showed that increasing salinity led to significant upregulation of genes involved in steroid synthesis, lipid metabolism, and cholesterol synthesis, while immune-related gene expression trended downward. Notably, LOC127523424 (carbonic anhydrase 4), igfbp7 (insulin-like growth factor-binding protein 7), and taurine transporter genes (slc6a6b, slc6a6a) all increased with rising salinity, suggesting their involvement in enhancing hyperosmotic stress adaptation. In conclusion, our findings confirm a significant impact of salinity on the grass carp liver. Long-term high-salinity adaptation appears to reduce immunity, while the liver enhances high-salinity tolerance through increased steroid synthesis and metabolism.
{"title":"Hepatic physiological and transcriptomic responses of grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) to long-term salinity stress","authors":"Tao Zhu , Zhu Zhu , Shengjie Li , Jing Tian , Caixia Lei , Jinxing Du , Hongmei Song","doi":"10.1016/j.cbd.2026.101753","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.cbd.2026.101753","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Salinity profoundly impacts fish survival, distribution, and physiological functions. Grass carp (<em>Ctenopharyngodon idella</em>), a vital aquaculture species, offers a representative model to investigate salinity adaptation mechanisms, providing crucial theoretical support for aquaculture practices. While the liver is a key metabolic organ in fish salinity adaptation, its specific regulatory role in the high-salinity tolerance of grass carp remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the effects of long-term salinity stress (0parts per thousand [ppt], 4 ppt, and 8 for one month) on grass carp liver. At 4 ppt salinity, mild hepatocyte edema and acinar cell hyperplasia were observed, while at 8 ppt salinity, irregular hepatocyte shapes, dilated hepatic sinusoids, and focal inflammatory cell infiltration were detected. Transcriptome sequencing showed that increasing salinity led to significant upregulation of genes involved in steroid synthesis, lipid metabolism, and cholesterol synthesis, while immune-related gene expression trended downward. Notably, <em>LOC127523424</em> (carbonic anhydrase 4), <em>igfbp7</em> (insulin-like growth factor-binding protein 7), and taurine transporter genes (<em>slc6a6b</em>, <em>slc6a6a</em>) all increased with rising salinity, suggesting their involvement in enhancing hyperosmotic stress adaptation. In conclusion, our findings confirm a significant impact of salinity on the grass carp liver. Long-term high-salinity adaptation appears to reduce immunity, while the liver enhances high-salinity tolerance through increased steroid synthesis and metabolism.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":55235,"journal":{"name":"Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology D-Genomics & Proteomics","volume":"58 ","pages":"Article 101753"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2026-01-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146022424","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"生物学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-20DOI: 10.1016/j.cbd.2026.101755
Qiang Wang , Siyi Li , Yu Yang , Rubiao Xie , Lingbin Wang , Weijun Wang , Jianmin Yang , Guohua Sun
Heat temperature caused by changes in the global environment have significant impacts on marine organisms. Apostichopus japonicus (A. japonicus) is an economically important benthic species in China's shallow-sea aquaculture. However, its growth and survival are easily affected by rising seawater temperatures. Therefore, it is necessary to explore its response to environmental high temperature. Endoplasmic reticulum (ER)stressserves as an important regulatory strategy for organisms to respond to environmental changes. It acts as the core hub connecting stress and immunity. In this study, we analyzed the histology, ultrastructure, and transcriptome of the digestive tract of A. japonicus at three temperatures: normal (18 °C), aestivation (25 °C), and lethal (32 °C) temperatures, to explore the role of ER stress in response to high temperature. Histological and ultrastructural results indicate that high temperature caused morphological changes in the digestive tract and that the structure and morphology of the ER exhibit alterations and even varying degrees of damage. A total of 603 and 4615 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified by transcriptome sequencing in the T25-vs-T18 and the T32-vs-T25 group comparisons, respectively. The GO results showed that DEGs were significantly enriched in GO terms related to protein folding, such as chaperone-mediated protein folding in both comparison groups. Additionally, KEGG enrichment analysis showed that both groups activated the pathway of protein processing in the ER and induced the ER stress response. The ER molecular chaperones, including BiP, GRP94, and HSP70, were all upregulated in expression. In addition to the aforementioned ER molecular chaperones, downstream factors in the unfolded protein response, such as S1P, TRAF2, and XBP, were also significantly upregulated in T32-vs-T25 group comparisons, indicating that UPR signaling pathways had enhanced expression. Our findings have characterized the internal molecular regulatory process of A. japonicus under high temperature from the perspective of ER stress and provides clues regarding immune response and homeostatic regulation in invertebrates under environment stress. These findings can provide a reference for the formulation of management measures to mitigate the impact of climate change on aquaculture.
{"title":"Different degrees of environmental high temperature induce varying endoplasmic reticulum stress responses in Apostichopus japonicus","authors":"Qiang Wang , Siyi Li , Yu Yang , Rubiao Xie , Lingbin Wang , Weijun Wang , Jianmin Yang , Guohua Sun","doi":"10.1016/j.cbd.2026.101755","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.cbd.2026.101755","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Heat temperature caused by changes in the global environment have significant impacts on marine organisms. <em>Apostichopus japonicus (A. japonicus)</em> is an economically important benthic species in China's shallow-sea aquaculture. However, its growth and survival are easily affected by rising seawater temperatures. Therefore, it is necessary to explore its response to environmental high temperature. <em>Endoplasmic reticulum (</em>ER<em>)</em> <strong>stress</strong> <em>serves as an important regulatory strategy for organisms to respond to environmental changes. It acts as the core hub connecting stress and immunity</em>. In this study, we analyzed the histology, ultrastructure, and transcriptome of the digestive tract of <em>A. japonicus</em> at three temperatures: normal (18 °C), aestivation (25 °C), and lethal (32 °C) temperatures, to explore the role of ER stress in response to high temperature. Histological and ultrastructural results indicate that high temperature caused morphological changes in the digestive tract and that the structure and morphology of the ER exhibit alterations and even varying degrees of damage. A total of 603 and 4615 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified by transcriptome sequencing in the T25-vs-T18 and the T32-vs-T25 group comparisons, respectively. The GO results showed that DEGs were significantly enriched in GO terms related to protein folding, such as chaperone-mediated protein folding in both comparison groups. Additionally, KEGG enrichment analysis showed that both groups activated the pathway of protein processing in the ER and induced the ER stress response. The ER molecular chaperones, including <em>BiP</em>, <em>GRP94</em>, and <em>HSP70</em>, were all upregulated in expression. In addition to the aforementioned ER molecular chaperones, downstream factors in the unfolded protein response, such as <em>S1P</em>, <em>TRAF2</em>, and <em>XBP</em>, were also significantly upregulated in T32-vs-T25 group comparisons, indicating that UPR signaling pathways had enhanced expression. Our findings have characterized the internal molecular regulatory process of <em>A. japonicus</em> under high temperature from the perspective of ER stress and provides clues regarding immune response and homeostatic regulation in invertebrates under environment stress. These findings can provide a reference for the formulation of management measures to mitigate the impact of climate change on aquaculture.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":55235,"journal":{"name":"Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology D-Genomics & Proteomics","volume":"58 ","pages":"Article 101755"},"PeriodicalIF":2.2,"publicationDate":"2026-01-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146069474","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"生物学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}