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Wang Y, Wang X, Chen Y, Du J, Xiao Y, Guo D, Liu S. Adapting to stress: The effects of hibernation and hibernacula temperature on the hepatic transcriptome of Rhinolophus pusillus. FASEB J 2024; 38:e23462. [PMID: 38318662 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202301646r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Hibernation, a survival strategy in mammals for extreme climates, induces physiological phenomena such as ischemia-reperfusion and metabolic shifts that hold great potential for advancements in modern medicine. Despite this, the molecular mechanisms underpinning hibernation remain largely unclear. This study used RNA-seq and Iso-seq techniques to investigate the changes in liver transcriptome expression of Rhinolophus pusillus during hibernation and active periods, as well as under different microhabitat temperatures. We identified 11 457 differentially expressed genes during hibernation and active periods, of which 395 showed significant differential expression. Genes associated with fatty acid catabolism were significantly upregulated during hibernation, whereas genes related to carbohydrate metabolism and glycogen synthesis were downregulated. Conversely, immune-related genes displayed differential expression patterns: genes tied to innate immunity were significantly upregulated, while those linked to adaptive immunity and inflammatory response were downregulated. The analysis of transcriptomic data obtained from different microhabitat temperatures revealed that R. pusillus exhibited an upregulation of genes associated with lipid metabolism in lower microhabitat temperature. This upregulation facilitated an enhanced utilization rate of triglyceride, ultimately resulting in increased energy provision for the organism. Additionally, R. pusillus upregulated gluconeogenesis-related genes regardless of the microhabitat temperature, demonstrating the importance of maintaining blood glucose levels during hibernation. Our transcriptomic data reveal that these changes in liver gene expression optimize energy allocation during hibernation, suggesting that liver tissue adaptively responds to the inherent stress of its function during hibernation. This study sheds light on the role of differential gene expression in promoting more efficient energy allocation during hibernation. It contributes to our understanding of how liver tissue adapts to the stressors associated with this state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Xufan Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Yu Chen
- College of Life Sciences, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Jianying Du
- College of Life Sciences, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Yanhong Xiao
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resource Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, China
| | - Dongge Guo
- College of Life Sciences, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Sen Liu
- College of Life Sciences, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, China
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2
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Li A, Leng H, Li Z, Jin L, Sun K, Feng J. Temporal dynamics of the bat wing transcriptome: Insight into gene-expression changes that enable protection against pathogen. Virulence 2023; 14:2156185. [PMID: 36599840 PMCID: PMC9815227 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2022.2156185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Skin acts as a mechanical barrier between the body and its surrounding environment and plays an important role in resistance to pathogens. However, we still know little regarding skin responses to physiological changes, particularly with regard to responses against potential pathogens. We herein executed RNA-seq on the wing of the Rhinolophus ferrumequinum to assess gene-expression variations at four physiological stages: pre-hibernation, hibernation (early-hibernation and late-hibernation), and post-hibernation, as well as the gene-expression patterns of infected and uninfected bats with the Pseudogymnoascus destructans (Pd). Our results showed that a greater number of differentially expressed genes between the more disparate physiological stages. Functional enrichment analysis showed that the down-regulated response pathways in hibernating bats included phosphorus metabolism and immune response, indicating metabolic suppression and decreased whole immune function. We also found up-regulated genes in post-hibernating bats that included C-type lectin receptor signalling, Toll-like receptor signalling pathway, and cell adhesion, suggesting that the immune response and skin integrity of the wing were improved after bats emerged from their hibernation and that this facilitated clearing Pd from the integument. Additionally, we found that the genes involved in cytokine or chemokine activity were up-regulated in late-hibernation compared to early-hibernation and that FOSB regulation of immune cell activation was differentially expressed in bats infected with Pd during late-hibernation, implying that the host's innate immune function was enhanced during late-hibernation so as to resist pathogenic infection. Our findings highlight the concept that maintenance of intrinsic immunity provides protection against pathogenic infections in highly resistant bats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aoqiang Li
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resource Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, China,School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, China
| | - Haixia Leng
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resource Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, China
| | - Zhongle Li
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resource Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, China,College of Life Science, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China
| | - Longru Jin
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resource Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, China
| | - Keping Sun
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resource Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, China,CONTACT Keping Sun
| | - Jiang Feng
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resource Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, China,College of Life Science, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China,Jiang Feng
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3
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Coussement L, Oosterhof MM, Guryev V, Reitsema VA, Bruintjes JJ, Goris M, Bouma HR, de Meyer T, Rots MG, Henning RH. Liver transcriptomic and methylomic analyses identify transcriptional mitogen-activated protein kinase regulation in facultative hibernation of Syrian hamster. Proc Biol Sci 2023; 290:20230368. [PMID: 37221849 PMCID: PMC10206468 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2023.0368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Hibernation consists of alternating torpor-arousal phases, during which animals cope with repetitive hypothermia and ischaemia-reperfusion. Due to limited transcriptomic and methylomic information for facultative hibernators, we here conducted RNA and whole-genome bisulfide sequencing in liver of hibernating Syrian hamster (Mesocricetus auratus). Gene ontology analysis was performed on 844 differentially expressed genes and confirmed the shift in metabolic fuel utilization, inhibition of RNA transcription and cell cycle regulation as found in seasonal hibernators. Additionally, we showed a so far unreported suppression of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and protein phosphatase 1 pathways during torpor. Notably, hibernating hamsters showed upregulation of MAPK inhibitors (dual-specificity phosphatases and sproutys) and reduced levels of MAPK-induced transcription factors (TFs). Promoter methylation was found to modulate the expression of genes targeted by these TFs. In conclusion, we document gene regulation between hibernation phases, which may aid the identification of pathways and targets to prevent organ damage in transplantation or ischaemia-reperfusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louis Coussement
- Department of Data Analysis and Mathematical Modelling, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Marloes M. Oosterhof
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Victor Guryev
- European Research Institute for the Biology of Ageing, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Vera A. Reitsema
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Jojanneke J. Bruintjes
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Maaike Goris
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Hjalmar R. Bouma
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Tim de Meyer
- Department of Data Analysis and Mathematical Modelling, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Marianne G. Rots
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Robert H. Henning
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, 9713 GZ Groningen, The Netherlands
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Wu G, Baumeister R, Heimbucher T. Molecular Mechanisms of Lipid-Based Metabolic Adaptation Strategies in Response to Cold. Cells 2023; 12:1353. [PMID: 37408188 PMCID: PMC10216534 DOI: 10.3390/cells12101353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Temperature changes and periods of detrimental cold occur frequently for many organisms in their natural habitats. Homeothermic animals have evolved metabolic adaptation strategies to increase mitochondrial-based energy expenditure and heat production, largely relying on fat as a fuel source. Alternatively, certain species are able to repress their metabolism during cold periods and enter a state of decreased physiological activity known as torpor. By contrast, poikilotherms, which are unable to maintain their internal temperature, predominantly increase membrane fluidity to diminish cold-related damage from low-temperature stress. However, alterations of molecular pathways and the regulation of lipid-metabolic reprogramming during cold exposure are poorly understood. Here, we review organismal responses that adjust fat metabolism during detrimental cold stress. Cold-related changes in membranes are detected by membrane-bound sensors, which signal to downstream transcriptional effectors, including nuclear hormone receptors of the PPAR (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor) subfamily. PPARs control lipid metabolic processes, such as fatty acid desaturation, lipid catabolism and mitochondrial-based thermogenesis. Elucidating the underlying molecular mechanisms of cold adaptation may improve beneficial therapeutic cold treatments and could have important implications for medical applications of hypothermia in humans. This includes treatment strategies for hemorrhagic shock, stroke, obesity and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Wu
- Bioinformatics and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Ralf Baumeister
- Bioinformatics and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
- Center for Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Research, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
- Signalling Research Centres BIOSS and CIBSS, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Heimbucher
- Bioinformatics and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
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5
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Liu S, Wang X, Zhu Y, Guo D, Wang Y, Wang Y. Epigenetic changes between the active and torpid states in the greater horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus ferrumequinum). Comp Biochem Physiol B Biochem Mol Biol 2023; 265:110829. [PMID: 36634815 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpb.2023.110829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Dynamic epigenetic changes during hibernation occur in some hibernating rodents, but these changes are poorly understood in hibernating bats. Populations of the greater horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus ferrumequinum) in north China hibernate and provide an opportunity to study how epigenetic markers and modifiers differ in the active and torpid states of a chiropteran. We used fluorescence-labeled methylation-sensitive amplified polymorphism (F-MSAP) and qRT-PCR techniques to determine changes in the global DNA methylation levels and mRNA expression levels of methylation-related proteins. These included DNA methyltransferase (DNMTs), methyl-CpG-binding proteins (MBPs, including MBDs, UHRFs, and zinc-finger protein family) in active and torpid R. ferrumequinum. In the torpid state, both the relative global methylation and the relative mRNA expression levels of some DNMTs and MBPs, including dnmt3b and zbtb4, increased significantly compared to the expression levels of these in the active state. These changes may involve methylation or assist in regulation of a particular subset of genes according to hibernation status. This indicates that epigenetic mechanisms may exist and facilitate the hibernation process of R. ferrumequinum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sen Liu
- College of Life Sciences, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, Henan, China.
| | - Xufan Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Yue Zhu
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resource Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Dongge Guo
- College of Life Sciences, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Yanmei Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, Henan, China
| | - Ying Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, Henan, China.
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6
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Chen W, Mao X. Impacts of seasonality on gene expression in the Chinese horseshoe bat. Ecol Evol 2022; 12:e8923. [PMID: 35592062 PMCID: PMC9100453 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.8923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 04/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Seasonality can cause changes in many environmental factors which potentially affects gene expression. Here, we used a bat species (Rhinolophus sinicus) from eastern China as a model to explore the molecular mechanisms of seasonal effects, in particular during phenological shifts in the spring and autumn. Based on the analysis of 45 RNA‐seq samples, we found strong seasonal effects on gene expression, with a large number of genes identified as either specific or biased to each season. Weighted gene co‐expression network analysis also identified multiple modules significantly associated with each season. These seasonal genes were further enriched into different functional categories. Consistent with effects of phenological shifts on bats, we found that genes related to promoting food intake were highly expressed in both autumn and spring. In addition, immunity genes were also highly expressed in both seasons although this seasonal immune response had tissue specificity in different seasons. In female bats, genes related to the delay of ovulation (e.g., NPPC, natriuretic peptide precursor type C) were highly expressed in October, while genes associated with the promotion of reproduction (e.g., DIO2, iodothyronine deiodinase 2) were biasedly expressed in April. Lastly, we found multiple known core clock genes in both October‐biased and April‐biased expressed genes, which may be involved in regulating the start and end of hibernation, respectively. Overall, together with studies in other land and aquatic animals, our work supports that seasonal gene expression variations may be a general evolutionary response to environmental changes in wild animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenli Chen
- School of Ecological and Environmental SciencesEast China Normal UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Xiuguang Mao
- School of Ecological and Environmental SciencesEast China Normal UniversityShanghaiChina
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7
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Tilikj N, Novo M. How to resist soil desiccation: Transcriptional changes in a Mediterranean earthworm during aestivation. Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol 2021; 264:111112. [PMID: 34748936 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2021.111112] [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: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Earthworms have a central role in ministering the terrestrial ecosystems and are proving to have an important role in modulating the effects climate change has on soil. Aestivation is a form of dormancy employed by the organisms living in deserts and arid environments, when confronted with prolonged periods of drought. Understanding global metabolic adjustments required for withstanding the harsh conditions of the ever more severe Iberian drought, we performed a global transcriptomic exploration of the endogeic earthworm Carpetania matritensis during aestivation. There were a total of 6352 differentially expressed transcripts in the aestivating group, with 65% being downregulated. Based on GO and KEGG enrichment analyses, downregulated genes seem to be indicative of an overall metabolic depression during aestivation. Indeed we noted a reduction of protein turnover and macromolecule metabolism coupled with suppression of genes involved in digestion. Upregulated genes, namely antioxidant genes and DNA repair genes showed clear signs of abiotic stress caused by ROS generation. Abiotic stress led to transcriptomic changes of genes involved in immune response, mostly affecting the NF-kb signaling pathway as well as changes in apoptotic genes indicating the necessity of investigating these processes in a tissue specific manner. Lastly we uncovered a possible mechanism for water retention by nitrogenous waste accumulation. This study provides the first ever transcriptomic investigation done on aestivating earthworms and as such serves as a general framework for investigation on other earthworm species and other soil invertebrates, which is becoming increasingly important with the current scenario of climate change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha Tilikj
- Biodiversity, Ecology and Evolution Department, Faculty of Biology, Complutense University of Madrid, C/José Antonio Nováis 12, 28040 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Marta Novo
- Biodiversity, Ecology and Evolution Department, Faculty of Biology, Complutense University of Madrid, C/José Antonio Nováis 12, 28040 Madrid, Spain
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8
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Pannkuk EL, Dorville NASY, Dzal YA, Fletcher QE, Norquay KJO, Willis CKR, Fornace AJ, Laiakis EC. Hepatic lipid signatures of little brown bats (Myotis lucifugus) and big brown bats (Eptesicus fuscus) at early stages of white-nose syndrome. Sci Rep 2021; 11:11581. [PMID: 34078939 PMCID: PMC8172879 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-90828-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
White-nose syndrome (WNS) is an emergent wildlife fungal disease of cave-dwelling, hibernating bats that has led to unprecedented mortalities throughout North America. A primary factor in WNS-associated bat mortality includes increased arousals from torpor and premature fat depletion during winter months. Details of species and sex-specific changes in lipid metabolism during WNS are poorly understood and may play an important role in the pathophysiology of the disease. Given the likely role of fat metabolism in WNS and the fact that the liver plays a crucial role in fatty acid distribution and lipid storage, we assessed hepatic lipid signatures of little brown bats (Myotis lucifugus) and big brown bats (Eptesicus fuscus) at an early stage of infection with the etiological agent, Pseudogymnoascus destructans (Pd). Differences in lipid profiles were detected at the species and sex level in the sham-inoculated treatment, most strikingly in higher hepatic triacylglyceride (TG) levels in E. fuscus females compared to males. Interestingly, several dominant TGs (storage lipids) decreased dramatically after Pd infection in both female M. lucifugus and E. fuscus. Increases in hepatic glycerophospholipid (structural lipid) levels were only observed in M. lucifugus, including two phosphatidylcholines (PC [32:1], PC [42:6]) and one phosphatidylglycerol (PG [34:1]). These results suggest that even at early stages of WNS, changes in hepatic lipid mobilization may occur and be species and sex specific. As pre-hibernation lipid reserves may aid in bat persistence and survival during WNS, these early perturbations to lipid metabolism could have important implications for management responses that aid in pre-hibernation fat storage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan L Pannkuk
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, 20057, USA.
| | - Nicole A S-Y Dorville
- Department of Biology and Centre for Forest Interdisciplinary Research (C-FIR), University of Winnipeg, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Yvonne A Dzal
- Department of Biology and Centre for Forest Interdisciplinary Research (C-FIR), University of Winnipeg, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Quinn E Fletcher
- Department of Biology and Centre for Forest Interdisciplinary Research (C-FIR), University of Winnipeg, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Kaleigh J O Norquay
- Department of Biology and Centre for Forest Interdisciplinary Research (C-FIR), University of Winnipeg, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Craig K R Willis
- Department of Biology and Centre for Forest Interdisciplinary Research (C-FIR), University of Winnipeg, Winnipeg, MB, Canada.
| | - Albert J Fornace
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, 20057, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular and Cellular Biology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, 20057, USA
| | - Evagelia C Laiakis
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, 20057, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular and Cellular Biology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, 20057, USA
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9
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Zhang J, Cai R, Liang J, Izaz A, Shu Y, Pan T, Wu X. Molecular mechanism of Chinese alligator (Alligator sinensis) adapting to hibernation. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY PART B-MOLECULAR AND DEVELOPMENTAL EVOLUTION 2020; 336:32-49. [PMID: 33231934 DOI: 10.1002/jez.b.23013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2020] [Revised: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Hibernation is a physiological state for Chinese alligators to cope with cold weather. In mammals, gene expression changes during hibernation and their regulatory mechanisms have been extensively studied, however, these studies in reptiles are still rare. Here, integrated analysis of messenger RNA (mRNA), microRNA (miRNA), and long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) reveals the molecular mechanisms of the hypothalamus, liver, and skeletal muscle in hibernating and active individuals. During hibernation, the number of genes increased in the hypothalamus, liver, and skeletal muscle was 585, 282, and 297, while the number of genes decreased was 215, 561, and 627, respectively, as compared with active individuals. Through Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analysis, the differential expressed genes were mainly enriched in DNA damage repair, biological rhythm, energy metabolism, myoprotein degradation, and other related items and pathways. Besides, 4740 miRNAs were identified in three tissues. Through the comprehensive analysis of miRNA and mRNA abundance profiles, 12,291, 6997, and 8232 miRNA-mRNA pairs all showed a negative correlation in the hypothalamus, liver, and skeletal muscle, respectively. Some miRNA target genes were related tobiological rhythm and energy metabolism, suggesting that miRNA may play an important role in the physiological metabolism of the hibernating adaptability of Chinese alligators. Moreover, 402, 230, and 130 differentially expressed lncRNAs were identified in the hypothalamus, liver, and skeletal muscle, respectively. The targeting relationship of four lncRNA-mRNA pairs were predicted, with the main function of target genes involved in the amino acid transportation. These results are helpful to further understand the molecular regulatory basis of the hibernation adaptation in Chinese alligators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jihui Zhang
- Key Laboratory for the Conservation and Utilization of Important Biological Resources of Anhui Province, Wuhu, China.,College of Life Sciences, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, China
| | - Ruiqing Cai
- Key Laboratory for the Conservation and Utilization of Important Biological Resources of Anhui Province, Wuhu, China.,College of Life Sciences, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, China
| | - Juanjuan Liang
- Key Laboratory for the Conservation and Utilization of Important Biological Resources of Anhui Province, Wuhu, China.,College of Life Sciences, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, China
| | - Ali Izaz
- Key Laboratory for the Conservation and Utilization of Important Biological Resources of Anhui Province, Wuhu, China.,College of Life Sciences, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, China
| | - Yilin Shu
- Key Laboratory for the Conservation and Utilization of Important Biological Resources of Anhui Province, Wuhu, China.,College of Life Sciences, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, China
| | - Tao Pan
- Key Laboratory for the Conservation and Utilization of Important Biological Resources of Anhui Province, Wuhu, China.,College of Life Sciences, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, China
| | - Xiaobing Wu
- Key Laboratory for the Conservation and Utilization of Important Biological Resources of Anhui Province, Wuhu, China.,College of Life Sciences, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, China
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10
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Sun H, Wang J, Xing Y, Pan YH, Mao X. Gut transcriptomic changes during hibernation in the greater horseshoe bat ( Rhinolophus ferrumequinum). Front Zool 2020; 17:21. [PMID: 32690984 PMCID: PMC7366455 DOI: 10.1186/s12983-020-00366-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The gut is the major organ for nutrient absorption and immune response in the body of animals. Although effects of fasting on the gut functions have been extensively studied in model animals (e.g. mice), little is known about the response of the gut to fasting in a natural condition (e.g. hibernation). During hibernation, animals endure the long term of fasting and hypothermia. Results Here we generated the first gut transcriptome in a wild hibernating bat (Rhinolophus ferrumequinum). We identified 1614 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) during four physiological states (Torpor, Arousal, Winter Active and Summer Active). Gene co-expression network analysis assigns 926 DEGs into six modules associated with Torpor and Arousal. Our results reveal that in response to the stress of luminal nutrient deficiency during hibernation, the gut helps to reduce food intake by overexpressing genes (e.g. CCK and GPR17) that regulate the sensitivity to insulin and leptin. At the same time, the gut contributes energy supply by overexpressing genes that increase capacity for ketogenesis (HMGCS2) and selective autophagy (TEX264). Furthermore, we identified separate sets of multiple DEGs upregulated in Torpor and Arousal whose functions are involved in innate immunity. Conclusion This is the first gut transcriptome of a hibernating mammal. Our study identified candidate genes associated with regulation of food intake and enhance of innate immunity in the gut during hibernation. By comparing with previous studies, we found that two DEGs (CPE and HSPA8) were also significantly elevated during torpor in liver and brain of R. ferrumequinum and several DEGs (e.g. TXNIP and PDK1/4) were commonly upregulated during torpor in multiple tissues of different mammals. Our results support that shared expression changes may underlie the hibernation phenotype by most mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haijian Sun
- School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062 China
| | - Jiaying Wang
- Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Research, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062 China
| | - Yutong Xing
- Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Research, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062 China
| | - Yi-Hsuan Pan
- Key Laboratory of Brain Functional Genomics of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062 China
| | - Xiuguang Mao
- School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062 China.,Institute of Eco-Chongming (IEC), East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062 China
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11
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Bandouchova H, Zukal J, Linhart P, Berkova H, Brichta J, Kovacova V, Kubickova A, Abdelsalam EEE, Bartonička T, Zajíčková R, Pikula J. Low seasonal variation in greater mouse-eared bat (Myotis myotis) blood parameters. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0234784. [PMID: 32634149 PMCID: PMC7340307 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0234784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2019] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The greater mouse-eared bat (Myotis myotis) is a flagship species for the protection of hibernation and summer maternity roosts in the Western Palearctic region. A range of pathogenic agents is known to put pressure on populations, including the white-nose syndrome fungus, for which the species shows the highest prevalence and infection intensity of all European bat species. Here, we perform analysis of blood parameters characteristic for the species during its natural annual life cycle in order to establish reference values. Despite sexual dimorphism and some univariate differences, the overall multivariate pattern suggests low seasonal variation with homeostatic mechanisms effectively regulating haematology and blood biochemistry ranges. Overall, the species displayed a high haematocrit and haemoglobin content and high concentration of urea, while blood glucose levels in swarming and hibernating bats ranged from hypo- to normoglycaemic. Unlike blood pH, concentrations of electrolytes were wide ranging. To conclude, baseline data for blood physiology are a useful tool for providing suitable medical care in rescue centres, for studying population health in bats adapting to environmental change, and for understanding bat responses to stressors of conservation and/or zoonotic importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hana Bandouchova
- Department of Ecology and Diseases of Zoo Animals, Game, Fish and Bees, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences Brno, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Zukal
- Institute of Vertebrate Biology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic
- Department of Botany and Zoology, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Linhart
- Department of Ecology and Diseases of Zoo Animals, Game, Fish and Bees, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences Brno, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Hana Berkova
- Institute of Vertebrate Biology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jiri Brichta
- Department of Ecology and Diseases of Zoo Animals, Game, Fish and Bees, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences Brno, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Veronika Kovacova
- Department of Ecology and Diseases of Zoo Animals, Game, Fish and Bees, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences Brno, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Aneta Kubickova
- Department of Ecology and Diseases of Zoo Animals, Game, Fish and Bees, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences Brno, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Ehdaa E. E. Abdelsalam
- Department of Ecology and Diseases of Zoo Animals, Game, Fish and Bees, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences Brno, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Tomáš Bartonička
- Department of Botany and Zoology, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Renata Zajíčková
- Department of Botany and Zoology, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
- Institute of Biostatistics and Analyses, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jiri Pikula
- Department of Ecology and Diseases of Zoo Animals, Game, Fish and Bees, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences Brno, Brno, Czech Republic
- * E-mail:
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Huang Y, Chen H, Yang P, Bai X, Shi Y, Vistro WA, Tarique I, Haseeb A, Chen Q. Hepatic lipid droplet breakdown through lipolysis during hibernation in Chinese Soft-Shelled Turtle ( Pelodiscus sinensis). Aging (Albany NY) 2020; 11:1990-2002. [PMID: 30926766 PMCID: PMC6503876 DOI: 10.18632/aging.101887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Hibernation is an adaptive survival strategy in response to cold and foodless winter. To determine the underlying mechanisms of seasonal adaptions, transcriptome sequencing studies have been conducted in bears, ground squirrels and bats. Despite advances in identifying differentially expressed genes involved in metabolism, the precise mechanisms of these physiological adaptions remain unclear. In the present study, we examined liver of Chinese Soft-Shelled Turtle (Pelodiscus sinensis) and found that the contents of lipid droplet (LD) and triglyceride (TG) were significantly decreased during hibernation. Increases in mRNA expression levels of lipolysis-related genes and decreased levels of lipogenesis-related genes during hibernation indicated that LD hydrolysis was stimulated during hibernation. To continuously release fatty acids (FAs) from LD, adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL) was recruited and accumulated on the surface of LDs via activation of Cyclic Adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)/protein kinase A (PKA) signaling. Meanwhile, increased phosphorylation of the LD-associated protein, perilipin-5, activated the enzyme activity of ATGL via interaction between comparative gene identification-58 (CGI-58) and ATGL. Taken together, our results indicated that ATGL accumulation on the LD surface and its induced enzyme activity during hibernation promoted LD breakdown in the liver of Chinese Soft-Shelled Turtle (Pelodiscus sinensis), thereby enhancing mitochondrial β-oxidation to maintain energy hemostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yufei Huang
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210095, China
| | - Hong Chen
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210095, China
| | - Ping Yang
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210095, China
| | - Xuebing Bai
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210095, China
| | - Yonghong Shi
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210095, China.,Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Waseem Ali Vistro
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210095, China
| | - Imran Tarique
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210095, China
| | - Abdul Haseeb
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210095, China
| | - Qiusheng Chen
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 210095, China
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13
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Xiao G, Liu S, Xiao Y, Zhu Y, Zhao H, Li A, Li Z, Feng J. Seasonal Changes in Gut Microbiota Diversity and Composition in the Greater Horseshoe Bat. Front Microbiol 2019; 10:2247. [PMID: 31632369 PMCID: PMC6779692 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2019.02247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2019] [Accepted: 09/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
A large number of microorganisms colonize the intestines of animals. The gut microbiota plays an important role in nutrient metabolism and affects a number of physiological mechanisms in the host. Studies have shown that seasonal changes occur in the intestinal microbes of mammals that hibernate seasonally. However, these studies only focused on ground squirrels and bears. It remains unclear how hibernation might affect the intestinal microbes of bats. In this study, we measured microbial diversity and composition in the gut of Rhinolophus ferrumequinum in different periods (early spring, early summer, late summer, torpor, and interbout arousal) using 16S ribosomal RNA gene amplicon sequencing and PICRUSt to predict functional profiles. We found seasonal changes in the diversity and composition of the gut microbes in R. ferrumequinum. The diversity of gut microbiota was highest in the late summer and lowest in the early summer. The relative abundance of Proteobacteria was highest in the early summer and significantly lower in other periods. The relative abundance of Firmicutes was lowest in the early summer and significantly increased in the late summer, followed by a significant decrease in the early winter and early spring. The relative abundance of Tenericutes was significantly higher in the early spring compared with other periods. The results of functional prediction by PICRUSt showed seasonal variations in the relative abundance of metabolism-related pathways, including lipid metabolism, carbohydrate metabolism, and energy metabolism. Functional categories for carbohydrate metabolism had significantly lower relative abundance in early winter-torpor compared with late summer, while those associated with lipid metabolism had significantly higher relative abundance in the early winter compared with late summer. Overall, our results show that seasonal physiological changes associated with hibernation alter the gut microbial community of R. ferrumequinum. Hibernation may also alter the metabolic function of intestinal microbes, possibly by converting the gut microflora from carbohydrate-related to lipid-related functional categories. This study deepens our understanding of the symbiosis between hibernating mammals and gut microbes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guohong Xiao
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resource Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, China
| | - Sen Liu
- Institute of Resources and Environment, Henan Polytechnic University, Jiaozuo, China
| | - Yanhong Xiao
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resource Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, China
| | - Yue Zhu
- Institute of Resources and Environment, Henan Polytechnic University, Jiaozuo, China
| | - Hanbo Zhao
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resource Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, China
| | - Aoqiang Li
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resource Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, China
| | - Zhongle Li
- School of Life Sciences, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China
| | - Jiang Feng
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Resource Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, China.,School of Life Sciences, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, China
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14
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Jin L, Yu JP, Yang ZJ, Merilä J, Liao WB. Modulation of Gene Expression in Liver of Hibernating Asiatic Toads ( Bufo gargarizans). Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:E2363. [PMID: 30103470 PMCID: PMC6121651 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19082363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Revised: 07/31/2018] [Accepted: 08/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hibernation is an effective energy conservation strategy that has been widely adopted by animals to cope with unpredictable environmental conditions. The liver, in particular, plays an important role in adaptive metabolic adjustment during hibernation. Mammalian studies have revealed that many genes involved in metabolism are differentially expressed during the hibernation period. However, the differentiation in global gene expression between active and torpid states in amphibians remains largely unknown. We analyzed gene expression in the liver of active and torpid Asiatic toads (Bufo gargarizans) using RNA-sequencing. In addition, we evaluated the differential expression of genes between females and males. A total of 1399 genes were identified as differentially expressed between active and torpid females. Of these, the expressions of 395 genes were significantly elevated in torpid females and involved genes responding to stresses, as well as contractile proteins. The expression of 1004 genes were significantly down-regulated in torpid females, most which were involved in metabolic depression and shifts in the energy utilization. Of the 715 differentially expressed genes between active and torpid males, 337 were up-regulated and 378 down-regulated. A total of 695 genes were differentially expressed between active females and males, of which 655 genes were significantly down-regulated in males. Similarly, 374 differentially expressed genes were identified between torpid females and males, with the expression of 252 genes (mostly contractile proteins) being significantly down-regulated in males. Our findings suggest that expression of many genes in the liver of B. gargarizans are down-regulated during hibernation. Furthermore, there are marked sex differences in the levels of gene expression, with females showing elevated levels of gene expression as compared to males, as well as more marked down-regulation of gene-expression in torpid males than females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Long Jin
- Key Laboratory of Southwest China Wildlife Resources Conservation (Ministry of Education), China West Normal University, Nanchong 637009, China.
- Key Laboratory of Artificial Propagation and Utilization in Anurans of Nanchong City, China West Normal University, Nanchong 637009, China.
- Institute of Eco-Adaptation in Amphibians and Reptiles, China West Normal University, Nanchong 637009, China.
| | - Jian Ping Yu
- Key Laboratory of Southwest China Wildlife Resources Conservation (Ministry of Education), China West Normal University, Nanchong 637009, China.
- Key Laboratory of Artificial Propagation and Utilization in Anurans of Nanchong City, China West Normal University, Nanchong 637009, China.
- Institute of Eco-Adaptation in Amphibians and Reptiles, China West Normal University, Nanchong 637009, China.
| | - Zai Jun Yang
- Key Laboratory of Southwest China Wildlife Resources Conservation (Ministry of Education), China West Normal University, Nanchong 637009, China.
| | - Juha Merilä
- Ecological Genetics Research Unit, Department of Biosciences, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 65, FI-00014, 00100 Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Wen Bo Liao
- Key Laboratory of Southwest China Wildlife Resources Conservation (Ministry of Education), China West Normal University, Nanchong 637009, China.
- Key Laboratory of Artificial Propagation and Utilization in Anurans of Nanchong City, China West Normal University, Nanchong 637009, China.
- Institute of Eco-Adaptation in Amphibians and Reptiles, China West Normal University, Nanchong 637009, China.
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