Snapshot of the eukaryotic gene expression in muskoxen rumen--a metatranscriptomic approach.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Herbivores rely on digestive tract lignocellulolytic microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi and protozoa, to derive energy and carbon from plant cell wall polysaccharides. Culture independent metagenomic studies have been used to reveal the genetic content of the bacterial species within gut microbiomes. However, the nature of the genes encoded by eukaryotic protozoa and fungi within these environments has not been explored using metagenomic or metatranscriptomic approaches.

Methodology/principal findings

In this study, a metatranscriptomic approach was used to investigate the functional diversity of the eukaryotic microorganisms within the rumen of muskoxen (Ovibos moschatus), with a focus on plant cell wall degrading enzymes. Polyadenylated RNA (mRNA) was seq

SUBMITTER: Qi M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3105075 | biostudies-literature | 2011

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature