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Westrick SE, Laslo M, Fischer E. Natural History of Model Organisms: The big potential of the small frog Eleutherodactylus coqui. eLife 2022; 11:73401. [PMID: 35029143 PMCID: PMC8824473 DOI: 10.7554/elife.73401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The Puerto Rican coquí frog Eleutherodactylus coqui is both a cultural icon and a species with an unusual natural history that has attracted attention from researchers in a number of different fields within biology. Unlike most frogs, the coquí frog skips the tadpole stage, which makes it of interest to developmental biologists. The frog is best known in Puerto Rico for its notoriously loud mating call, which has allowed researchers to study aspects of social behavior such as vocal communication and courtship, while the ability of coquí to colonize new habitats has been used to explore the biology of invasive species. This article reviews existing studies on the natural history of E. coqui and discusses opportunities for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E Westrick
- Department of Evolution, Ecology, and Behavior, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, United States
| | - Mara Laslo
- Curriculum Fellow Program, Harvard University, Cambridge, United States
| | - Eva Fischer
- Department of Evolution, Ecology, and Behavior, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana and Champaign, United States
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2
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Naumann B, Schweiger S, Hammel JU, Müller H. Parallel evolution of direct development in frogs - Skin and thyroid gland development in African Squeaker Frogs (Anura: Arthroleptidae: Arthroleptis). Dev Dyn 2021; 250:584-600. [PMID: 33354814 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Revised: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cases of parallel evolution offer the possibility to identify adaptive traits and to uncover developmental constraints on the evolutionary trajectories of these traits. The independent evolution of direct development from the ancestral biphasic life history in frogs is such a case of parallel evolution. In frogs, aquatic larvae (tadpoles) differ profoundly from their adult forms and exhibit a stunning diversity regarding their habitats, morphology and feeding behaviors. The transition from the tadpole to the adult is a climactic, thyroid hormone (TH)-dependent process of profound and fast morphological rearrangement called metamorphosis. One of the organ systems that experiences the most comprehensive metamorphic rearrangements is the skin. Direct-developing frogs lack a free-swimming tadpole and hatch from terrestrial eggs as fully formed froglets. In the few species examined, development is characterized by the condensed and transient formation of some tadpole-specific features and the early formation of adult-specific features during a "cryptic" metamorphosis. RESULTS We show that skin in direct-developing African squeaker frogs (Arthroleptis) is also repatterned from a tadpole-like to an adult-like histology during a cryptic metamorphosis. This repatterning correlates with histological thyroid gland maturation. A comparison with data from the Puerto Rican coqui (Eleutherodactylus coqui) reveals that the evolution of direct development in these frogs is associated with a comparable heterochronic shift of thyroid gland maturation. CONCLUSION This suggests that the development of many adult features is still dependent on, and possibly constrained by, the ancestral dependency on thyroid hormone signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Susan Schweiger
- Institut für Zoologie und Evolutionsforschung, Jena, Germany
| | - Jörg U Hammel
- Helmholtz-Zentrum Geesthacht, Zentrum für Material- und Küstenforschung, Außenstelle am DESY, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Hendrik Müller
- Institut für Zoologie und Evolutionsforschung, Jena, Germany.,Zentralmagazin Naturwissenschaftlicher Sammlungen, Martin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany.,Department of Life Sciences, The Natural History Museum, London, UK
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3
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Vera Candioti F, Goldberg J, Akmentins MS, Nogueira Costa P, Goulart Taucce PP, Pombal J. Skeleton in the closet: hidden diversity in patterns of cranial and postcranial ontogeny in Neotropical direct-developing frogs (Anura: Brachycephaloidea). ORG DIVERS EVOL 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s13127-020-00467-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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4
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Luc H, Sears C, Raczka A, Gross JB. Wholemount In Situ Hybridization for Astyanax Embryos. J Vis Exp 2019. [PMID: 30882790 DOI: 10.3791/59114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, a draft genome for the blind Mexican cavefish (Astyanax mexicanus) has been released, revealing the sequence identities for thousands of genes. Prior research into this emerging model system capitalized on comprehensive genome-wide investigations that have identified numerous quantitative trait loci (QTL) associated with various cave-associated phenotypes. However, the ability to connect genes of interest to the heritable basis for phenotypic change remains a significant challenge. One technique that can facilitate deeper understanding of the role of development in troglomorphic evolution is whole-mount in situ hybridization. This technique can be implemented to directly compare gene expression between cave- and surface-dwelling forms, nominate candidate genes underlying established QTL, identify genes of interest from next-generation sequencing studies, or develop other discovery-based approaches. In this report, we present a simple protocol, supported by a flexible checklist, that can be widely adapted for use well beyond the presented study system. It is hoped that this protocol can serve as a broad resource for the Astyanax community and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi Luc
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cincinnati
| | - Connor Sears
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cincinnati
| | - Andrew Raczka
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cincinnati
| | - Joshua B Gross
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Cincinnati;
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5
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Arenas Gómez CM, Woodcock RM, Smith JJ, Voss RS, Delgado JP. Using transcriptomics to enable a plethodontid salamander (Bolitoglossa ramosi) for limb regeneration research. BMC Genomics 2018; 19:704. [PMID: 30253734 PMCID: PMC6157048 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-018-5076-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2018] [Accepted: 09/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Tissue regeneration is widely distributed across the tree of life. Among vertebrates, salamanders possess an exceptional ability to regenerate amputated limbs and other complex structures. Thus far, molecular insights about limb regeneration have come from a relatively limited number of species from two closely related salamander families. To gain a broader perspective on the molecular basis of limb regeneration and enhance the molecular toolkit of an emerging plethodontid salamander (Bolitoglossa ramosi), we used RNA-Seq to generate a de novo reference transcriptome and identify differentially expressed genes during limb regeneration. Results Using paired-end Illumina sequencing technology and Trinity assembly, a total of 433,809 transcripts were recovered and we obtained functional annotation for 142,926 non-redundant transcripts of the B. ramosi de novo reference transcriptome. Among the annotated transcripts, 602 genes were identified as differentially expressed during limb regeneration. This list was further processed to identify a core set of genes that exhibit conserved expression changes between B. ramosi and the Mexican axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum), and presumably their common ancestor from approximately 180 million years ago. Conclusions We identified genes from B. ramosi that are differentially expressed during limb regeneration, including multiple conserved protein-coding genes and possible putative species-specific genes. Comparative analyses reveal a subset of genes that show similar patterns of expression with ambystomatid species, which highlights the importance of developing comparative gene expression data for studies of limb regeneration among salamanders. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12864-018-5076-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia M Arenas Gómez
- Grupo de Genética, Regeneración y Cáncer, Universidad de Antioquia, Sede de Investigación Universitaria, Torre 2, laboratorio 432. Calle 62 No. 52 - 59, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Ryan M Woodcock
- Department of Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40506, USA.,Keene State College, Keene, NH, USA
| | - Jeramiah J Smith
- Department of Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40506, USA
| | - Randal S Voss
- Department of Neuroscience, Spinal Cord and Brain Injury Research Center, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, 40536, USA
| | - Jean Paul Delgado
- Grupo de Genética, Regeneración y Cáncer, Universidad de Antioquia, Sede de Investigación Universitaria, Torre 2, laboratorio 432. Calle 62 No. 52 - 59, Medellín, Colombia.
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6
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Kerney RR, Hanken J, Blackburn DC. Early limb patterning in the direct-developing salamander Plethodon cinereus revealed by sox9 and col2a1. Evol Dev 2018. [PMID: 29527799 DOI: 10.1111/ede.12250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Direct-developing amphibians form limbs during early embryonic stages, as opposed to the later, often postembryonic limb formation of metamorphosing species. Limb patterning is dramatically altered in direct-developing frogs, but little attention has been given to direct-developing salamanders. We use expression patterns of two genes, sox9 and col2a1, to assess skeletal patterning during embryonic limb development in the direct-developing salamander Plethodon cinereus. Limb patterning in P. cinereus partially resembles that described in other urodele species, with early formation of digit II and a generally anterior-to-posterior formation of preaxial digits. Unlike other salamanders described to date, differentiation of preaxial zeugopodial cartilages (radius/tibia) is not accelerated in relation to the postaxial cartilages, and there is no early differentiation of autopodial elements in relation to more proximal cartilages. Instead, digit II forms in continuity with the ulnar/fibular arch. This amniote-like connectivity to the first digit that forms may be a consequence of the embryonic formation of limbs in this direct-developing species. Additionally, and contrary to recent models of amphibian digit identity, there is no evidence of vestigial digits. This is the first account of gene expression in a plethodontid salamander and only the second published account of embryonic limb patterning in a direct-developing salamander species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan R Kerney
- Department of Biology, Gettysburg College, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
| | - James Hanken
- Museum of Comparative Zoology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - David C Blackburn
- Florida Museum of Natural History, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
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7
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A Tale of a Tail: Variation during the Early Ontogeny ofHaddadus binotatus(Brachycephaloidea: Craugastoridae) as Compared with Other Direct Developers. J HERPETOL 2015. [DOI: 10.1670/14-072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Budzik KA, Żuwała K, Buchholz DR. Taste organ growth and development in the direct developing frogEleutherodactylus coqui(Lissamphibia: Eleutherodactylidae). ACTA ZOOL-STOCKHOLM 2015. [DOI: 10.1111/azo.12137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Karolina A. Budzik
- Department of Comparative Anatomy; Jagiellonian University; Gronostajowa 9 30-387 Kraków Poland
| | - Krystyna Żuwała
- Department of Comparative Anatomy; Jagiellonian University; Gronostajowa 9 30-387 Kraków Poland
| | - Daniel R. Buchholz
- Department of Biological Sciences; University of Cincinnati; 711A Rieveschl Hall 312 Clifton Ct. Cincinnati OH 45221 USA
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A novel whole-embryo culture model for pharmaceutical and developmental studies. J Pharmacol Toxicol Methods 2015; 73:21-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vascn.2015.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2014] [Revised: 02/13/2015] [Accepted: 02/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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10
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Helm RR, Tiozzo S, Lilley MKS, Lombard F, Dunn CW. Comparative muscle development of scyphozoan jellyfish with simple and complex life cycles. EvoDevo 2015; 6:11. [PMID: 25932322 PMCID: PMC4415277 DOI: 10.1186/s13227-015-0005-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2014] [Accepted: 03/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Simple life cycles arise from complex life cycles when one or more developmental stages are lost. This raises a fundamental question - how can an intermediate stage, such as a larva, be removed, and development still produce a normal adult? To address this question, we examined the development in several species of pelagiid jellyfish. Most members of Pelagiidae have a complex life cycle with a sessile polyp that gives rise to ephyrae (juvenile medusae); but one species within Pelagiidae, Pelagia noctiluca, spends its whole life in the water column, developing from a larva directly into an ephyra. In many complex life cycles, adult features develop from cell populations that remain quiescent in larvae, and this is known as life cycle compartmentalization and may facilitate the evolution of direct life cycles. A second type of metamorphic processes, known as remodeling, occurs when adult features are formed through modification of already differentiated larval structures. We examined muscle morphology to determine which of these alternatives may be present in Pelagiidae. Results We first examined the structure and development of polyp and ephyra musculature in Chrysaora quinquecirrha, a close relative of P. noctiluca with a complex life cycle. Using phallotoxin staining and confocal microscopy, we verified that polyps have four to six cord muscles that persist in strobilae and discovered that cord muscles is physically separated from ephyra muscle. When cord muscle is removed from ephyra segments, normal ephyra muscle still develops. This suggests that polyp cord muscle is not necessary for ephyra muscle formation. We also found no evidence of polyp-like muscle in P. noctiluca. In both species, we discovered that ephyra muscle arises de novo in a similar manner, regardless of the life cycle. Conclusions The separate origins of polyp and ephyra muscle in C. quinquecirrha and the absence of polyp-like muscle in P. noctiluca suggest that polyp muscle is not remodeled to form ephyra muscle in Pelagiidae. Life cycle stages in Scyphozoa may instead be compartmentalized. Because polyp muscle is not directly remodeled, this may have facilitated the loss of the polyp stage in the evolution of P. noctiluca. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13227-015-0005-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca R Helm
- Brown University, 80 Waterman St. Box GW, Providence, 02912 RI USA
| | - Stefano Tiozzo
- CNRS, Laboratoire de Biologie du Développement de Villefranche-sur-mer, Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, Observatoire Océanographique, 06230 Villefranche-sur-mer, France
| | - Martin K S Lilley
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, UMR 7093, LOV, Observatoire Océanologique, 06230 Villefranche-sur-mer, France ; Current address: School of Biological and Chemical Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London, E1 4NS UK
| | - Fabien Lombard
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, UMR 7093, LOV, Observatoire Océanologique, 06230 Villefranche-sur-mer, France
| | - Casey W Dunn
- Brown University, 80 Waterman St. Box GW, Providence, 02912 RI USA
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11
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Ziermann JM, Diogo R. Cranial muscle development in frogs with different developmental modes: direct development versus biphasic development. J Morphol 2014; 275:398-413. [PMID: 24877162 DOI: 10.1002/jmor.20223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Normal development in anurans includes a free swimming larva that goes through metamorphosis to develop into the adult frog. We have investigated cranial muscle development and adult cranial muscle morphology in three different anuran species. Xenopus laevis is obligate aquatic throughout lifetime, Rana(Lithobates) pipiens has an aquatic larvae and a terrestrial adult form, and Eleutherodactylus coqui has direct developing juveniles that hatch from eggs deposited on leaves (terrestrial). The adult morphology shows hardly any differences between the investigated species. Cranial muscle development of E. coqui shows many similarities and only few differences to the development of Rana (Lithobates) and Xenopus. The differences are missing muscles of the branchial arches (which disappear during metamorphosis of biphasic anurans) and a few heterochronic changes. The development of the mandibular arch (adductor mandibulae) and hyoid arch (depressor mandibulae) muscles is similar to that observed in Xenopus and Rana (Lithobates), although the first appearance of these muscles displays a midmetamorphic pattern in E. coqui. We show that the mix of characters observed in E. coqui indicates that the larval stage is not completely lost even without a free swimming larval stage. Cryptic metamorphosis is the process in which morphological changes in the larva/embryo take place that are not as obvious as in normal metamorphosing anurans with a clear biphasic lifestyle. During cryptic metamorphosis, a normal adult frog develops, indicating that the majority of developmental mechanisms towards the functional adult cranial muscles are preserved.
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12
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Gunter HM, Koppermann C, Meyer A. Revisiting de Beer's textbook example of heterochrony and jaw elongation in fish: calmodulin expression reflects heterochronic growth, and underlies morphological innovation in the jaws of belonoid fishes. EvoDevo 2014; 5:8. [PMID: 24499543 PMCID: PMC3927394 DOI: 10.1186/2041-9139-5-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2013] [Accepted: 12/12/2013] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Heterochronic shifts during ontogeny can result in adaptively important innovations and might be initiated by simple developmental switches. Understanding the nature of these developmental events can provide insights into fundamental molecular mechanisms of evolutionary change. Fishes from the Suborder Belonoidei display a vast array of extreme craniofacial morphologies that appear to have arisen through a series of heterochronic shifts. We performed a molecular heterochrony study, comparing postembryonic jaw development in representatives of the Suborder Belonoidei, the halfbeak Dermogenys pusilla (where the lower jaw is considerably elongated compared to the upper jaw) and the needlefish Belone belone (where both jaws are elongated), to a representative of their sister group the Suborder Adrianichthyoidei, the medaka Oryzias latipes, which has retained the ancestral morphology. Results Early in development, the lower jaw displays accelerated growth both in needlefish and halfbeak compared to medaka, and secondary acceleration of the upper jaw is seen in needlefish later in their development, representing a case of mosaic heterochrony. We identified toothless extensions of the dentaries as innovations of Belonoid fishes and the source of heterochronic growth. The molecular basis of growth heterochronies in the Belonoidei was examined through comparing expression of skeletogenic genes during development of halfbeak and medaka. The calmodulin paralogue calm1 was identified as a potential regulator of jaw length in halfbeak as its expression gradually increases in the lower jaw, but not the upper jaw, in a pattern that matches its outgrowth. Moreover, medaka displays equal expression of calm1 in the upper and lower jaws, consistent with the lack of jaw outgrowth in this species. Conclusions Heterochronic shifts in jaw growth have occurred repeatedly during the evolution of Belonoid fishes and we identify toothless extensions of the dentaries as an important innovation of this group. Our results suggest that calm1 contributes to jaw heterochrony in halfbeak, potentially driving further heterochronic shifts in jaw growth across the Suborder Belonoidei, such as the upper jaw acceleration observed in needlefish.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Axel Meyer
- Department of Biology, Lehrstuhl für Zoologie und Evolutionsbiologie, University of Konstanz, Universitätstrasse 10, 78457 Constance, Germany.
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13
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Abstract
The evolutionary removal of the tadpole from the frog life history is a very successful strategy, particularly in the tropics. These direct developers form limbs and a frog-like head early in embryogenesis, and they have reduced or lost tadpole-specific structures, like gills, a long, coiled intestine, and tadpole teeth and jaws. Despite the apparently continuous development to the frog morphology, the direct developer, Eleutherodactylus coqui, undergoes a cryptic metamorphosis requiring thyroid hormone. As in Xenopus laevis, there is a stimulation by corticotrophin-releasing factor (CRF) and an upregulation of thyroid hormone receptor β (thrb). In addition to changes in skin and muscle, thyroid hormone stimulates yolk utilization for froglet growth from a novel tissue, the nutritional endoderm. The activities of CRF and corticosterone (CORT) in metamorphosis may provide the basis for the multiple evolutionary origins of direct development in anuran amphibians. Potential roles for maternally supplied thyroid hormone and its receptor and for deiodinases in regulating tissue sensitivity to thyroid hormone should be the subjects of future investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard P Elinson
- Department of Biological Sciences, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.
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14
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Tokita M, Chaeychomsri W, Siruntawineti J. Skeletal gene expression in the temporal region of the reptilian embryos: implications for the evolution of reptilian skull morphology. SPRINGERPLUS 2013; 2:336. [PMID: 24711977 PMCID: PMC3970585 DOI: 10.1186/2193-1801-2-336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2013] [Accepted: 07/08/2013] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Reptiles have achieved highly diverse morphological and physiological traits that allow them to exploit various ecological niches and resources. Morphology of the temporal region of the reptilian skull is highly diverse and historically it has been treated as an important character for classifying reptiles and has helped us understand the ecology and physiology of each species. However, the developmental mechanism that generates diversity of reptilian skull morphology is poorly understood. We reveal a potential developmental basis that generates morphological diversity in the temporal region of the reptilian skull by performing a comparative analysis of gene expression in the embryos of reptile species with different skull morphology. By investigating genes known to regulate early osteoblast development, we find dorsoventrally broadened unique expression of the early osteoblast marker, Runx2, in the temporal region of the head of turtle embryos that do not form temporal fenestrae. We also observe that Msx2 is also uniquely expressed in the mesenchymal cells distributed at the temporal region of the head of turtle embryos. Furthermore, through comparison of gene expression pattern in the embryos of turtle, crocodile, and snake species, we find a possible correlation between the spatial patterns of Runx2 and Msx2 expression in cranial mesenchymal cells and skull morphology of each reptilian lineage. Regulatory modifications of Runx2 and Msx2 expression in osteogenic mesenchymal precursor cells are likely involved in generating morphological diversity in the temporal region of the reptilian skull.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masayoshi Tokita
- Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tenno-dai 1-1-1, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8572 Japan ; Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University, 16 Divinity Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02138 USA
| | - Win Chaeychomsri
- Department of Zoology, Kasetsart University, 50 Ngam Wong Wan Road, Chatuchak, Bangkok, 10900 Thailand
| | - Jindawan Siruntawineti
- Department of Zoology, Kasetsart University, 50 Ngam Wong Wan Road, Chatuchak, Bangkok, 10900 Thailand
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15
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Nath K, Fisher C, Elinson RP. Expression of cyclin D1, cyclin D2, and N-myc in embryos of the direct developing frog Eleutherodactylus coqui, with a focus on limbs. Gene Expr Patterns 2013; 13:142-9. [PMID: 23473789 PMCID: PMC3657300 DOI: 10.1016/j.gep.2013.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2012] [Revised: 02/18/2013] [Accepted: 02/23/2013] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Species of frogs that develop directly have removed the tadpole from their ontogeny and form adult structures precociously. To see whether cell cycle regulators could be involved in this altered embryogenesis, we examined the expression of ccnd1, ccnd2, and mycn in embryos of the direct developing frog, Eleutherodactylus coqui. Notable differences compared to embryos of Xenopus laevis, a species with a tadpole, included prominent expression of ccnd2 in the midbrain and ccnd1 in the mandibular neural crest. The former may contribute to the precocious appearance of the adult-type visual system and the latter to the adult-type jaw. Large domains of ccnd2 and mycn presage the early appearance of limb buds, and ccnd1 and mycn are implicated in digit development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly Nath
- Department of Biological Sciences, Duquesne University, 600 Forbes
Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15282, U.S.A
| | - Cara Fisher
- Department of Biological Sciences, Duquesne University, 600 Forbes
Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15282, U.S.A
| | - Richard P. Elinson
- Department of Biological Sciences, Duquesne University, 600 Forbes
Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15282, U.S.A
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16
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Meza-joya FL, Ramos-pallares EP, RamÍrez-pinilla MP. Ontogeny of the Vertebral Column ofEleutherodactylus johnstonei(Anura: Eleutherodactylidae) Reveals Heterochronies Relative to Metamorphic Frogs. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2013; 296:1019-30. [DOI: 10.1002/ar.22705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2012] [Accepted: 03/21/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Leonardo Meza-joya
- Colección Herpetológica y Laboratorio de Biología Reproductiva de Vertebrados; Grupo de Estudios en Biodiversidad, Escuela de Biología, Universidad Industrial de Santander; A.A. 678, Cra 27 calle 9 Bucaramanga Colombia
| | - Eliana Patricia Ramos-pallares
- Colección Herpetológica y Laboratorio de Biología Reproductiva de Vertebrados; Grupo de Estudios en Biodiversidad, Escuela de Biología, Universidad Industrial de Santander; A.A. 678, Cra 27 calle 9 Bucaramanga Colombia
| | - Martha Patricia RamÍrez-pinilla
- Colección Herpetológica y Laboratorio de Biología Reproductiva de Vertebrados; Grupo de Estudios en Biodiversidad, Escuela de Biología, Universidad Industrial de Santander; A.A. 678, Cra 27 calle 9 Bucaramanga Colombia
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17
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Gomez-Mestre I, Pyron RA, Wiens JJ. Phylogenetic analyses reveal unexpected patterns in the evolution of reproductive modes in frogs. Evolution 2012. [PMID: 23206128 DOI: 10.1111/j.1558-5646.2012.01715.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Understanding phenotypic diversity requires not only identification of selective factors that favor origins of derived states, but also factors that favor retention of primitive states. Anurans (frogs and toads) exhibit a remarkable diversity of reproductive modes that is unique among terrestrial vertebrates. Here, we analyze the evolution of these modes, using comparative methods on a phylogeny and matched life-history database of 720 species, including most families and modes. As expected, modes with terrestrial eggs and aquatic larvae often precede direct development (terrestrial egg, no tadpole stage), but surprisingly, direct development evolves directly from aquatic breeding nearly as often. Modes with primitive exotrophic larvae (feeding outside the egg) frequently give rise to direct developers, whereas those with nonfeeding larvae (endotrophic) do not. Similarly, modes with eggs and larvae placed in locations protected from aquatic predators evolve frequently but rarely give rise to direct developers. Thus, frogs frequently bypass many seemingly intermediate stages in the evolution of direct development. We also find significant associations between terrestrial reproduction and reduced clutch size, larger egg size, reduced adult size, parental care, and occurrence in wetter and warmer regions. These associations may help explain the widespread retention of aquatic eggs and larvae, and the overall diversity of anuran reproductive modes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Gomez-Mestre
- Estación Biológica de Doñana, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Avda. Americo Vespucio s/n, Sevilla 41092, Spain.
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Fisher S, Franz-Odendaal T. Evolution of the bone gene regulatory network. Curr Opin Genet Dev 2012; 22:390-7. [PMID: 22663778 DOI: 10.1016/j.gde.2012.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2012] [Revised: 04/24/2012] [Accepted: 04/26/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Current fossil, embryological and genetic data shed light on the evolution of the gene regulatory network (GRN) governing bone formation. The key proteins and genes involved in skeletogenesis are well accepted. We discuss when these essential components of the GRN evolved and propose that the Runx genes, master regulators of skeletogenesis, functioned in early cartilages well before they were co-opted to function in the making of bone. Two rounds of whole genome duplication, together with additional tandem gene duplications, created a genetic substrate for segregation of one GRN into several networks regulating the related tissues of cartilage, bone, enamel, and dentin. During this segregation, Runx2 assumed its position at the top of the bone GRN, and Sox9 was excluded from bone, retaining its ancient role in cartilage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon Fisher
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States.
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Elinson RP, del Pino EM. Developmental diversity of amphibians. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY 2012; 1:345-69. [PMID: 22662314 PMCID: PMC3364608 DOI: 10.1002/wdev.23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
The current model amphibian, Xenopus laevis, develops rapidly in water to a tadpole which metamorphoses into a frog. Many amphibians deviate from the X. laevis developmental pattern. Among other adaptations, their embryos develop in foam nests on land or in pouches on their mother's back or on a leaf guarded by a parent. The diversity of developmental patterns includes multinucleated oogenesis, lack of RNA localization, huge non-pigmented eggs, and asynchronous, irregular early cleavages. Variations in patterns of gastrulation highlight the modularity of this critical developmental period. Many species have eliminated the larva or tadpole and directly develop to the adult. The wealth of developmental diversity among amphibians coupled with the wealth of mechanistic information from X. laevis permit comparisons that provide deeper insights into developmental processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard P Elinson
- Department of Biological Sciences, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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Goldberg J, Candioti FV, Akmentins MS. Direct-developing frogs: ontogeny of Oreobates barituensis (Anura: Terrarana) and the development of a novel trait. AMPHIBIA-REPTILIA 2012. [DOI: 10.1163/156853812x638527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Within Anura, direct development involves ontogenetic changes of the biphasic ancestral pattern. The recent partitioning of the genus Eleutherodactylus, along with the proposition of the unranked taxon Terrarana, has renewed an interest to the morphological and ecological diversity among direct-developing frogs. The morphological changes during embryonic development of Oreobates barituensis is similar to those of other Neotropical direct-developing species, including the reduction or absence of several larval and embryonic characters (e.g., external gills and adhesive glands), heterochronic changes (e.g., early developing limbs and late persistence of ciliated epidermal cells), and the appearance of new structures (e.g., egg tooth). The tail achieves an extraordinary peramorphic development (encloses the entire embryo), and the location of its expanded part is interpreted as a heterotopic change resulting in a novel trait. An enveloping tail with apparently non-heterotopic fins, combined with the absence of gills, has been only reported for a species of the related genus Craugastor, and these morphologies suggest an informative perspective for the study of evolution of direct development in terraranans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Goldberg
- 1CONICET-Instituto de Bio y Geociencias, Museo de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Salta, Mendoza 2, 4400 Salta, Argentina
| | - Florencia Vera Candioti
- 2CONICET-Instituto de Herpetología, Fundación Miguel Lillo, Miguel Lillo 251, 4000 Tucumán, Argentina
| | - Mauricio Sebastián Akmentins
- 1CONICET-Instituto de Bio y Geociencias, Museo de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Salta, Mendoza 2, 4400 Salta, Argentina
- 3CONICET-Centro de Investigaciones Básicas y Aplicadas (CIBA), Universidad Nacional de Jujuy, Gorriti 237, 4600 S. S. Jujuy, Argentina
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Kerney R. Embryonic Staging Table for a Direct-Developing Salamander, Plethodon cinereus (Plethodontidae). Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2011; 294:1796-808. [DOI: 10.1002/ar.21480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2011] [Accepted: 08/02/2011] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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Mitgutsch C, Wimmer C, Sánchez-Villagra MR, Hahnloser R, Schneider RA. Timing of ossification in duck, quail, and zebra finch: intraspecific variation, heterochronies, and life history evolution. Zoolog Sci 2011; 28:491-500. [PMID: 21728797 DOI: 10.2108/zsj.28.491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Skeletogenic heterochronies have gained much attention in comparative developmental biology. The temporal appearance of mineralized individual bones in a species - the species ossification sequence - is an excellent marker in this kind of study. Several publications describe interspecific variation, but only very few detail intraspecific variation. In this study, we describe and analyze the temporal order of ossification of skeletal elements in the zebra finch, Taeniopygia guttata, the Japanese quail, Coturnix coturnix japonica, and the White Pekin duck, a domestic race of the mallard Anas platyrhynchos, and explore patterns of intraspecific variation in these events. The overall sequences were found to be conserved. In the duck, variability is present in the relative timing of ossification in the occipital, the basisphenoid and the otic regions of the skull and the phalanges in the postcranium. This variation appears generally in close temporal proximity. Comparison with previously published data shows differences in ossification sequence in the skull, the feet, and the pelvis in the duck, and especially the pelvis in the quail. This clearly documents variability among different breeds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Mitgutsch
- Paläontologisches Institut und Museum, Universität Zürich, Karl Schmid-Strasse 4, CH-8006 Zürich, Switzerland
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Kerney RR, Blackburn DC, Müller H, Hanken J. DO LARVAL TRAITS RE-EVOLVE? EVIDENCE FROM THE EMBRYOGENESIS OF A DIRECT-DEVELOPING SALAMANDER, PLETHODON CINEREUS. Evolution 2011; 66:252-62. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1558-5646.2011.01426.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Abstract
The middle ear is a composite organ formed from all three germ layers and the neural crest. It provides the link between the outside world and the inner ear, where sound is transduced and routed to the brain for processing. Extensive classical and modern studies have described the complex morphology and origin of the middle ear. Non-mammalian vertebrates have a single ossicle, the columella. Mammals have three functionally equivalent ossicles, designated the malleus, incus and stapes. In this review, I focus on the role of genes known to function in the middle ear. Genetic studies are beginning to unravel the induction and patterning of the multiple middle ear elements including the tympanum, skeletal elements, the air-filled cavity, and the insertion point into the inner ear oval window. Future studies that elucidate the integrated spatio-temporal signaling mechanisms required to pattern the middle ear organ system are needed. The longer-term translational benefits of understanding normal and abnormal ear development will have a direct impact on human health outcomes.
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