| 研究実績の概要 |
Based on the genome assembly and predicted gene models of Dicyema japonicum, I performed the comparative analyses to investigate the genomic adaptations of dicyemids. Comparing to other bilaterian species, D. japonicum possesses less genes in most KEGG reference pathways. In addition, parasite
species from different phyla show a convergent gene number reduction in metabolism pathways, particularly. In contrast, D. japonicum exhibits multiple copies on genes associated with endocytosis and membrane trafficking, which perhaps reflect its specialized nutrient-uptake strategy. These results indicate that parasites may adapt to their habitat environments and specific lifecycles through eliminating genes which are not necessary for parasitic lifestyle anymore and increasing gene copies corresponding to lineage- specific biological processes. Besides, I also analyzed the RNA-seq data of four lifecycle stages to explore the differentially expressed genes and what biological functions they are involved in. Most differentially expressed genes are up- regulated at dispersal larva (infusoriform larva) stage, and these genes are over-represented on gene ontology terms associated with motor activity and response to the stimulus. The results suggest that dicyemids may have potential mechanisms to sense chemical cues in the surrounding environments, although no nervous system has been reported in dicyemids. Combining the freely-swimming mobility, infusoriform larvae could actively approach new hosts in the open water to close the lifecycle.
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| 今後の研究の推進方策 |
To organize data I obtained in previous two years, and prepare the manuscript for publication and writing my PhD thesis. After paper submission and receiving the comments from reviewer, revision and additional required analyses will be finished by this year. It would be the mesozoan genome paper, revealing the genomic adaptions to parasitic lifestyle.
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