Research
| Title： | Characterization of sf-1 expression and identification its role in regulating sexual development of golden pompano (Trachinotus blochii) |
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| First author： | Shen, Huijun; Yuan, Xin; Song, Feibiao; Li, Zhi; Sun, Shukui; Chen, Huapeng; Bu, Shaoyang; Zhou, Li; Luo, Jian |
| Journal： | AQUACULTURE |
| Years： | 2025 |
| DOI： | 10.1016/j.aquaculture.2024.742070 |
| Abstract： | Steroidogenic factor 1 ( sf-1 or nr5a1) plays a crucial role in mammalian gonadal development and steroidogenesis. However, its function in teleosts remains poorly understood. In this study, we conducted molecular biological and transcriptomic analyses to investigate the role of sf-1 in the sex differentiation and steroidogenesis of golden pompano ( Trachinotus blochii). Molecular characterization revealed a highly conserved SF-1 proteins in golden pompano. Expression analysis demonstrated predominant sf-1 expression in the testes at 3, 6, and 10 months post-fertilization (mpf), suggesting a key role in male differentiation. RNA interference-mediated knockdown of sf-1 resulted in reduced expression of genes involved in sex differentiation and steroidogensis ( dmrt1, cyp11b, hsd17b3, cyp19a1a, hsd17b1, and foxl2), as well as a significant increase in serum estradiol levels, indicating its potential effect in suppressing estrogen synthesis. Gonadal transcriptomic analysis of 3 mpf golden pompano identified a series of differentially expressed genes involved in steroid hormone biosynthesis, cAMP, GnRH and GH signaling pathways, which were dominant expressed in testes compared to ovaries. Moreover, these genes were significantly downregulated in sf-1-knockdown testes. Interaction network analysis suggested synergistic actions of sf-1 with these signaling pathways. Our findings suggest that sf-1 plays a crucial role in promoting male differentiation and regulating steroid hormone biosynthesis in golden pompano, likely through a complex interplay with multiple signaling pathways. |
