Intraspecific epigenomics divergence in brown bears (Ursus arctos): insights from genome-wide DNA methylation patterns

Frontiers in Ecology and Evolution, Год журнала: 2025, Номер 12

Опубликована: Янв. 24, 2025

Epigenetic mechanisms such as methylation can influence gene expression and play a crucial role in the adaptation to local environmental conditions, thereby introducing non-genetic variability within species. Here, using Reduced Representation Bisulfite Sequencing approach (RRBS), we compared patterns blood muscle across three European brown bear populations. Our results clearly demonstrated that, beyond tissue-driven divergences, of populations are significantly distinct. Differentially methylated sites, possibly associated with genomic features involved development anatomical differentiation, widespread genome. This finding supports previous studies suggesting for alteration developmental pathways shaping phenotypic novelties potential adaptative significance. underscore importance effectiveness including epigenetic approaches studying wild non-model organisms. Investigating epigenome be especially relevant endangered that have experienced significant erosion diversity.

Язык: Английский

Conservation genomics of a threatened subtropical Rhododendron species highlights the distinct conservation actions required in marginal and admixed populations

The Plant Journal, Год журнала: 2025, Номер 122(2)

Опубликована: Апрель 1, 2025

SUMMARY With the impact of climate change and anthropogenic activities, underlying threats facing populations with different evolutionary histories distributions, associated conservation strategies necessary to ensure their survival, may vary within a species. This is particularly true for marginal and/or those showing admixture. Here, we re‐sequence genomes 102 individuals from 21 locations Rhododendron vialii , threatened species distributed in subtropical forests southwestern China that has suffered habitat fragmentation due deforestation. Population structure results revealed R . can be divided into five genetic lineages using neutral single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), whereas selected SNPs divide six lineages. Guigu (GG) population, which identified as admixed SNPs, but assigned distinct cluster non‐neutral loci. experienced multiple bottlenecks, demographic have been suggested among populations. Ecological niche modeling combined genomic offset analysis suggests population (Northeast, NE) harboring highest diversity likely risk maladaptation future. The therefore needs urgent ex situ areas where influence future predicted well buffered. Alternatively, GG potential local adaptation, will need conservation. Puer carries heaviest load, rescue. Our findings highlight how genomics, analysis, ecological integrated inform targeted

Язык: Английский