The role of mitochondria in sex- and age-specific gene expression in a species without sex chromosomes.

ABSTRACT: Mitochondria perform an array of functions, many of which involve interactions with gene products encoded by the nucleus. These mitochondrial functions, particularly those involving energy production, can be expected to differ between sexes and across ages. Here, we measured mitochondrial effects on sex- and age-specific gene expression in parental and reciprocal F1 hybrids between allopatric populations of Tigriopus californicus with over 20% mitochondrial DNA divergence. Because the species lacks sex chromosomes, sex-biased mitochondrial effects are not confounded by the effects of sex chromosomes. Results revealed pervasive sex differences in mitochondrial effects, including effects on energetics and aging involving nuclear interactions throughout the genome. Using single-individ

SUBMITTER: Li N 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11181141 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature