Transcriptomic characterisation of eyestalk and central nervous system during ovarian maturation in black tiger prawn
Centre for Bioinnovation and School of Science, Technology and Engineering
University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD 4556
Successful reproduction in captive female black tiger prawns (Penaeus monodon) remains primarily reliant on eyestalk ablation, an invasive practice that highlights major gaps in our understanding of reproductive control. To uncover the molecular mechanisms underlying ovarian maturation, we used RNA sequencing to profile gene expression in two key neuroendocrine tissues, including eyestalk and central nervous system, across previtellogenic, early vitellogenic, and late vitellogenic ovarian stages. The analysis revealed distinct tissue-specific expression patterns, with many neuropeptides and regulatory genes showing peak expression during early vitellogenesis, suggesting a critical role in coordinating ovarian development. These findings point to a complex regulatory network that extends beyond protein-coding genes and highlight new opportunities for bioinformatics-driven discovery. This research advances our understanding of crustacean reproduction and may contribute to the development of sustainable, animal-friendly alternatives to eyestalk ablation in prawn aquaculture.
Bio
Gourab Chowdhury, an international student from Bangladesh, is pursuing his Ph.D. at the University of the Sunshine Coast. He completed a B.Sc. in Fisheries from Sylhet Agricultural University and an M.Sc. in Marine Environment and Resources from the University of the Basque Country (Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree). He is currently investigating molecular and endocrine regulation of ovarian maturation in the black tiger prawn, Penaeus monodon.
