Genomic and transcriptomic insights into molecular basis of sexually dimorphic nuptial spines in Leptobrachium leishanense

Jun Li, Haiyan Yu, Wenxia Wang, Chao Fu, Wei Zhang, Fengming Han and Hua Wu ()
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Jun Li: Central China Normal University
Haiyan Yu: Biomarker Technologies Corporation
Wenxia Wang: Central China Normal University
Chao Fu: Central China Normal University
Wei Zhang: Central China Normal University
Fengming Han: Biomarker Technologies Corporation
Hua Wu: Central China Normal University

Nature Communications, 2019, vol. 10, issue 1, 1-13

Abstract: Abstract Sexually dimorphic (SD) traits are important in sexual selection and species survival, yet the molecular basis remains elusive, especially in amphibians where SD traits have evolved repeatedly. We focus on the Leishan moustache toad (Leptobrachium leishanense), in which males develop nuptial spines on their maxillary skin. Here we report a 3.5 Gb genome assembly with a contig N50 of 1.93 Mb. We find a specific expansion of the intermediate filament gene family including numerous keratin genes. Within these genes, a cluster of duplicated hair keratin genes exhibits male-biased and maxillary skin-specific expression, suggesting a role in developing nuptial spines. We identify a module of coexpressed genes significantly associated with spine formation. In addition, we find several hormones likely to be involved in regulating spine development. This study not only presents a high-quality anuran genome but also provides a reference for studying skin-derived SD traits in amphibians.

Date: 2019
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DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-13531-5

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