The gene regulatory mechanisms shaping the heterogeneity of venom production in the Cape coral snake.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Venoms and their associated glands and delivery structures have evolved numerous times among animals. Within these venom systems, the molecular, cellular, and morphological components interact and co-evolve to generate distinct, venom phenotypes that are increasingly recognized as models for studying adaptive evolution. However, toxins are often unevenly distributed across venom-producing tissues in patterns that are not necessarily adaptive but instead likely result from constraints associated with protein secretion.

Results

We generate a high-quality draft genome of the Cape coral snake (Aspidelaps lubricus) and combine analyses of venom gland single-cell RNA-seq data with spatial venom gland in situ toxin distributions. Our results reveal that while different t

SUBMITTER: Nachtigall PG 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12087220 | biostudies-literature | 2025 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature