Division of developmental phases of freshwater leech Whitmania pigra and key genes related to neurogenesis revealed by whole genome and transcriptome analysis

BMC Genomics, 2023 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12864-023-09286-5 · Published: April 5, 2023

Simple Explanation

The freshwater leech Whitmania pigra is studied to understand its embryonic development using genomics and transcriptomics. The study defines five stages of embryogenesis: cleavage, blastocyst, gastrula, organogenesis and refinement, and juvenile. Researchers analyzed gene expression patterns during these stages to identify genes involved in morphogenesis, signaling pathways, and neurogenesis.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

W. pigra embryos and adults

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Five broad stages of embryogenesis were defined: cleavage stages, blastocyst stage, gastrula stage, organogenesis and refinement, juvenile.
2
3114 genes differentially expressed during the eight phases with phase-specific expression pattern.
3
57, 49 and 77 DEGs were respectively related to morphogenesis, signal pathways and neurogenesis.

Research Summary

This study presents a high-quality genome of Whitmania pigra, and reports a transcriptome covering the starting point of cell differentiation to individual maturation. We described the whole process of W. pigra embryonic development and divided the phases according to morphological characteristics. Our work provides a rich resource for further analysis of W. pigra development.

Practical Implications

Advancing Leech Farming

Refining the breeding process through a better understanding of leech embryonic development, leading to improved yield and resistance enhancement.

Insights into Annelid Development

Providing new clues for organogenesis and neurodevelopmental studies of Annelida species.

Model for Developmental Biology

Potentiating W. pigra as a model for developmental biology due to its experimentally accessible nervous system and stress-resistant embryos.

Study Limitations

1
The precise cell lineages were not closely followed during phase division due to difficulties with W. pigra.
2
Only one gene cluster related to signal pathways was shown in the current study.
3
Further exploration of other gene clusters is needed.

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Back to Neurology