ArticleBMC genomics2026
A transcriptome analysis revealing the molecular mechanism of light intensity-driven color variation in the skin of Chinese giant salamander (Andrias davidianus).
Article in BMC genomics, 2026. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Not yet cited in PubMed.
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Abstract
The body color of juvenile Chinese giant salamander (Andrias davidianus) exhibits a lighter hue in a dimly lit environments and a darker hue in well-lit environments, and this variation follows a circadian rhythm. To determine the effect of light on the body color of juvenile salamanders, three treatments were arranged in this study, including: natural light (C, control light, 12 h day/night), high light (H, 24 h day, 220 Lux), and complete darkness (B, 24 h night, 0 Lux). Skin samples were collected for RNA sequencing after 12 days, and skin, blood, liver, brain, and eyes were gathered on days 0, 4, 8, and 12 for skin density measurement, tissue sectioning, enzyme activity detection, and qPCR validation to analyze the effect of light on the characterization and molecular regulation of the body color. The results showed that with constant lighting, the skin color significantly darker, exhibiting the lowest average gray level and highest average optical density. HE staining showed a significant increase and clustering of melanin particles between the epidermis and glands. The activity of tyrosinase in the skin was highest on the days 8 in group H. Both continuous light and darkness significantly increased the activity of CAT in the liver and serum. qPCR validation showed that key genes involved in various melanin biosynthesis pathways (such as Tyr, Tyrp1, Pmel) were generally upregulated in the group H. In summary, light can activate the pigment synthesis pathway, promote melanin deposition and gene expression, and enhance antioxidant enzyme activity. However, continuous exposure to light and darkness can disrupt the circadian rhythm in the giant salamander, inducing feedback changes in certain genes. The giant salamander adapts to its environment by coordinating melanin deposition and antioxidant defense, achieving dynamic changes in body color while clearing free radicals to mitigate oxidative damage.
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