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IS-MOBIL-Mobilitetsprogr.f.utl.Ph.D-stu

The role of DNA (cytosine-5)- methyltransferases in the epigenetic regulation of sexual maturation and growth in Atlantic cod

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It is well established that the reproductive cycle of teleosts is regulated by pituitary gonadotropic hormones produced by the adenohypophysis, which correspond to follicle stimulating hormone and luteinising hormone from mammals. These hormones and their receptors are responsible for the structural changes suffered by the gonads during different times of the cycle. In Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua), sexual maturation is seasonal and follows a circannual rhythm that depends on various zeitgebers. Photoperi od is one of the main proximate environmental cues, since extended or compressed light cycles have been shown to delay or accelerate sexual maturation, respectively. As the fish prepare for spawning there is a decrease in growth rate and even a reduction in body weight. Very little is known about the genetic networks that control sexual maturation and growth in cod. In particular, nothing is known about the epigenetic regulation of these processes at a molecular level. DNA (cytosine-5)-methyltransferase s (DNMTs) play a crucial role in epigenetic regulation of gene expression. These enzymes methylate cytosine bases at CpG sites, inducing a repressed chromatin state and thus inhibiting transcription. It is plausible that photoperiod induces changes in gen e methylation patterns through DNMT activity. The main goal of this project is to evaluate a possible correlation between photoperiod, DNMT expression and changes in the methylation status of key genes involved in sexual maturation and growth. These ge nes will be cloned in Atlantic cod and their expression levels and methylation patterns will be evaluated in response to photoperiod manipulation during a maturation cycle.

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IS-MOBIL-Mobilitetsprogr.f.utl.Ph.D-stu