Retrocopies in Lepidoptera and Silkworm Domestication
Author Information
Author(s): Bie Lingzi, Sun Jiahe, Wang Yi, Wang Chunfang
Primary Institution: Biological Science Research Center, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
Hypothesis
The study investigates the role of retrocopies in the domestication of silkworm and their characteristics in lepidopteran insects.
Conclusion
The study identifies 1993 retrocopies in lepidopteran insects and suggests a potential association between these retrocopies and the domestication of silkworm.
Supporting Evidence
- A total of 1993 retrocopies and 1208 parental genes in lepidopteran insects were obtained.
- The retrocopies in Lepidoptera do not conform to the 'out of X' hypothesis but fit the 'out of testis' hypothesis.
- Transcriptome analysis revealed that the expression pattern of the retrocopies and their parental genes were irrelevant.
- Seven retrocopies related to domestication were identified, indicating potential functions in growth and development.
Takeaway
Scientists found many new genes in butterflies and moths that might help explain how silkworms changed when they were domesticated.
Methodology
The study compared genomes and proteomes of eight lepidopteran insects to identify retrocopies and analyzed their characteristics and functions.
Statistical Information
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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