Molecular phenotyping uncovers differences in basic housekeeping
functions among closely related species of hares (Lepus spp.,
Lagomorpha: Leporidae)
Abstract
Speciation is a fundamental evolutionary process, which results in
genetic differentiation of populations and manifests as discrete
morphological, physiological and behavioral differences. Each species
has had its own evolutionary trajectory, formed by many types of
selection pressures and random drift, making the association of genetic
differences between the species with the phenotypic differences
extremely difficult. In the present study, we have used an in vitro
model to analyze in depth the genetic and gene regulation differences
between fibroblasts of two closely related mammals, the arctic/subarctic
mountain hare (Lepus timidus Linnaeus) and the temperate
steppe-climate adapted brown hare (Lepus europaeus Pallas). We
discovered the existence of a species-specific expression pattern of
1,623 genes, manifesting in differences in cell growth, respiration, and
metabolism. Interspecific differences in the housekeeping functions of
fibroblast cells suggest speciation acts on fundamental processes, even
in these two interfertile species. Our results help to understand the
molecular constituents of a species difference on cellular level, which
could contribute to the maintenance of the species boundary