Publications by authors named "Amie L Romney"

In recent years a diversity of small noncoding RNAs have been identified that originate from the mitochondrial genome. These mitosRNAs are often dominated by tRNA-derived small RNAs (mito-tDRs). Differential expression of mito-tDRs is associated with responses to stress.

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Article Synopsis
  • The annual killifish Austrofundulus limnaeus is being studied for its unique adaptations to extreme conditions like desiccation and anoxia in ephemeral ponds in Venezuela.
  • Researchers have successfully sequenced the first draft genome of A. limnaeus, utilizing advanced genomic assembly and annotation techniques, showing it has high completeness in gene regions.
  • This genome will serve as an important resource for understanding the genetic basis of stress tolerance and evolutionary mechanisms in annual killifishes, beneficial for exploring broader vertebrate physiology and evolution.
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Background: Austrofundulus limnaeus is an annual killifish from the Maracaibo basin of Venezuela. Annual killifishes are unique among vertebrates in their ability to enter into a state of dormancy at up to three distinct developmental stages termed diapause I, II, and III. These embryos are tolerant of a wide variety of environmental stresses and develop relatively slowly compared with nonannual fishes.

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Background: Genotype and environment can interact during development to produce novel adaptive traits that support life in extreme conditions. The development of the annual killifish is unique among vertebrates because the embryos have distinct cell movements that separate epiboly from axis formation during early development, can enter into a state of metabolic dormancy known as diapause and can survive extreme environmental conditions. The ability to enter into diapause can be maternally programmed, with young females producing embryos that do not enter into diapause.

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