Transcriptome Analysis of Physarum polycephalum
Author Information
Author(s): Gernot Glöckner, Georg Golderer, Gabriele Werner-Felmayer, Sonja Meyer, Wolfgang Marwan
Primary Institution: Leibniz Institute for Age Research – Fritz Lipmann Institute
Hypothesis
What are the transcribed genes in the plasmodial stage of Physarum polycephalum?
Conclusion
The study provides an analysis of up to half of the protein coding genes of Physarum polycephalum, revealing a complex signaling network and alternative splicing.
Supporting Evidence
- More than 2500 publications exist on various aspects of Physarum polycephalum.
- Up to half of the transcribed genes have no detectable counterpart in related organisms.
- Many genes are alternatively spliced, indicating complex gene regulation.
Takeaway
Scientists looked at the genes of a slime mold called Physarum polycephalum and found many genes that help it respond to its environment, like light.
Methodology
Sequencing of a cDNA library from the plasmodial stage of Physarum polycephalum.
Limitations
The study may not cover all genes due to the nature of expressed sequence tags (ESTs) and the complexity of the organism's genome.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website