Genome-wide identification and characteristic analysis of ETS gene family in blood clam Tegillarca granosa

Abstract

Abstract Background ETS transcription factors, known as the E26 transformation-specific factors, assume a critical role in the regulation of various vital biological processes in animals, including cell differentiation, the cell cycle, and cell apoptosis. However, their characterization in mollusks is currently lacking. Results The current study focused on a comprehensive analysis of the ETS genes in blood clam Tegillarca granosa and other mollusk genomes. Our phylogenetic analysis revealed the absence of the SPI and ETV subfamilies in mollusks compared to humans. Additionally, several ETS genes in mollusks were found to lack the PNT domain, potentially resulting in a diminished ability of ETS proteins to bind target genes. Interestingly, the bivalve ETS1 genes exhibited significantly high expression levels during the multicellular proliferation stage and gill tissues. Furthermore, qRT-PCR results showed that Tg-ETS-14 (ETS1) is significant upregulation in the high total hemocyte counts (THC) population of T. granosa, suggesting it assumes a significant function in stimulating hemocyte proliferation. Conclusion Our study significantly contributes to the comprehension of the evolutionary aspects concerning the ETS gene family, while also providing valuable insights into its role in fostering hemocyte proliferation across mollusks.