Eda haplotypes in three-spined stickleback are associated with variation in immune gene expression

Robertson, S., Bradley, J. E. and MacColl, A. D.C. (2017) Eda haplotypes in three-spined stickleback are associated with variation in immune gene expression. Scientific Reports, 7, 42677. (doi: 10.1038/srep42677) (PMID:28195171) (PMCID:PMC5307360)

Abstract

Haplotypes underlying local adaptation and speciation are predicted to have numerous phenotypic effects, but few genes involved have been identified, with much work to date concentrating on visible, morphological, phenotypes. The link between genes controlling these adaptive morphological phenotypes and the immune system has seldom been investigated, even though changes in the immune system could have profound adaptive consequences. The Eda gene in three-spined stickleback is one of the best studied major adaptation genes; it directly controls bony plate architecture and has been associated with additional aspects of adaptation to freshwater. Here, we exposed F2 hybrids, used to separate Eda genotype from genetic background, to contrasting conditions in semi-natural enclosures. We demonstrate an association between the Eda haplotype block and the expression pattern of key immune system genes. Furthermore, low plated fish grew less and experienced higher burdens of a common ectoparasite with fitness consequences. Little is currently known about the role of the immune system in facilitating adaptation to novel environments, but this study provides an indication of its potential importance.

• Item Type: Articles
• Additional Information: This work was supported by the Natural Environment Research Council [grant number NE/K501311/1], by a studentship awarded to SR, and through a Genetics Society UK Heredity Fieldwork Grant and a Fisheries Society of the British Isles Small Research Grant.
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Robertson, Dr Shaun
• Authors: Robertson, S., Bradley, J. E., and MacColl, A. D.C.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Biodiversity, One Health & Veterinary Medicine
• Journal Name: Scientific Reports
• Publisher: Nature Research
• ISSN: 2045-2322
• ISSN (Online): 2045-2322
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2016 The Authors
• First Published: First published in Scientific Reports 7: 42677
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced under a Creative Commons License