<i>In situ</i> quantification of individual mRNA transcripts in melanocytes discloses gene regulation of relevance to speciation.

ABSTRACT: Functional validation of candidate genes involved in adaptation and speciation remains challenging. Here, we exemplify the utility of a method quantifying individual mRNA transcripts in revealing the molecular basis of divergence in feather pigment synthesis during early-stage speciation in crows. Using a padlock probe assay combined with rolling circle amplification, we quantified cell-type-specific gene expression in the histological context of growing feather follicles. Expression of Tyrosinase Related Protein 1 (TYRP1), Solute Carrier Family 45 member 2 (SLC45A2) and Hematopoietic Prostaglandin D Synthase (HPGDS) was melanocyte-limited and significantly reduced in follicles from hooded crow, explaining the substantially lower eumelanin content in grey versus black

SUBMITTER: Wu CC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6650291 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature