Work

Genome-transcriptome co-analysis identifies members and molecular characteristics of the TRAF gene family in Siberian sturgeon (Acipenser baerii)

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factors (TRAFs), as key signal transducers, play a crucial role in both innate and adaptive immune responses. However, current research on the systematic identification of the TRAF family and its functional role in Siberian sturgeon ( Acipenser baerii ) is relatively unexplored. In this study, TRAF family members were first identified in A. baerii using comparative genomics and transcriptome analyses. To further determine the TRAF sequences of A. baerii , the open reading frame (ORF) sequences of the Abtraf1 , Abtraf5 , Abtraf6 , and Abtraf7 were cloned. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that these Abtraf exhibit high sequence similarity and evolutionary conservation across teleost species. RNA-seq and qRT-PCR analysis revealed high Abtraf expression in the whole pre-larvae stage and immune-related tissues such as the head kidney, gill, and spleen. Induction of Abtraf gene expression was observed upon stimulation with Streptococcus iniae and Aeromonas hydrophila in vivo . In this study, head kidney leukocytes (HKLs) were isolated and stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), peptidoglycan (PGN), or poly(I:C), all of which induced Abtraf expression, with significant upregulation occurring early post-treatment. Notably, Abtraf5 responded predominantly to bacterial components (LPS/PGN), whereas Abtraf 7 was specifically poly(I:C)-responsive. These findings help clarify the molecular roles of Abtraf and provide a basis for further functional research on TRAF in teleosts. • AbTRAF was identified through comparative genomics and transcriptomic analyses. • The ORF sequences of the Abtraf 1, Abtraf 5, Abtraf 6, and Abtraf 7 were cloned. • AbTRAF exhibit high sequence similarity and evolutionary conservation. • Abtraf show tissue- and developmental stage-specific expression. • Abtraf expression is upregulated early during bacterial/PAMPs challenges in vivo and in vitro.

Source: Fish & Shellfish Immunology

DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2025.110690