Two High-Quality Cygnus Genome Assemblies Reveal Genomic Variations Associated with Plumage Color
As an exemplary model for examining molecular mechanisms responsible for extreme phenotypic variations, plumage color has garnered significant interest. The genus features two species, and , that exhibit striking disparities in plumage color. However, the molecular foundation for this differentiatio...
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| Published in: | International journal of molecular sciences 2023-11, Vol.24 (23), p.16953 |
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| Main Authors: | , , , , , , , , , |
| Format: | Article |
| Language: | eng |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | Get full text |
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| Summary: | As an exemplary model for examining molecular mechanisms responsible for extreme phenotypic variations, plumage color has garnered significant interest. The
genus features two species,
and
, that exhibit striking disparities in plumage color. However, the molecular foundation for this differentiation has remained elusive. Herein, we present two high-quality genomes for
and
, procured using the Illumina and Nanopore technologies. The assembled genome of
was 1.12 Gb in size with a contig N50 of 26.82 Mb, while its counterpart was 1.13 Gb in size with a contig N50 of 21.91 Mb. A comparative analysis unveiled three genes (
,
, and
) with structural variants in the melanogenic pathway. Notably, we also identified a novel gene, PWWP domain containing 2A (
), that is related to plumage color, for the first time. Using targeted gene modification analysis, we demonstrated the potential genetic effect of the
variant on pigment gene expression and melanin production. Finally, our findings offer insight into the intricate pattern of pigmentation and the role of polygenes in birds. Furthermore, these two high-quality genome references provide a comprehensive resource and perspective for comparative functional and genetic studies of evolution within the
genus. |
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| ISSN: | 1422-0067 1661-6596 1422-0067 |