Evolution of memory system-related genes

Lactate-mediated neural plasticity genes emerged during the evolution of memory systems

The ability to record experiences and learning is present to different degrees in several species; however, the complexity and diversity of memory processes are cognitive function features that differentiate humans from other species. Lactate has recently been discovered to act as a signaling molecule for neuronal plasticity linked to long-term memory. Because lactate is not only an energy substrate for neurons but also a signaling molecule for plasticity (Magistretti and Allaman in Nat Rev Neurosci 19:235-249, 2018. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrn.2018.19 ), it is of particular interest to understand how and when memory-related genes and lactate-mediated neural plasticity (LMNP) genes emerged and evolved in humans. To understand the evolutionary origin and processes of memory and LMNP genes, we first collected information on genes related to memory and LMNP from the literature and then conducted a comparative analysis of these genes. We found that the memory and LMNP genes have different origins, suggesting that these genes may have become established gradually in evolutionarily and functional terms and not at the same time. We also found that memory and LMNP systems have a similar evolutionary history, having been formed with the gradual participation of newly emerging genes throughout their evolution. We propose that the function of LMNP as a signaling process may be evolutionarily associated with memory systems through an unidentified system that is linked by 13 common genes between memory and LMNP gene sets. This study provides evolutionary insight into the possible relationship between memory and the LMNP systems that deepens our understanding of the evolution of memory systems.

Neuro-molecular characterization of fish cleaning interactions

Coral reef fish exhibit a large variety of behaviours crucial for fitness and survival. The cleaner wrasse Labroides dimidiatus displays cognitive abilities during interspecific interactions by providing services of ectoparasite cleaning, thus serving as a good example to understand the processes of complex social behaviour. However, little is known about the molecular underpinnings of cooperative behaviour between L. dimidiatus and a potential client fish (Acanthurus leucosternon). Therefore, we investigated the molecular mechanisms in three regions of the brain (Fore-, Mid-, and Hindbrain) during the interaction of these fishes. Here we show, using transcriptomics, that most of the transcriptional response in both species was regulated in the Hindbrain and Forebrain regions and that the interacting behaviour responses of L. dimidiatus involved immediate early gene alteration, dopaminergic and glutamatergic pathways, the expression of neurohormones (such as isotocin) and steroids (e.g. progesterone and estrogen). In contrast, in the client, fewer molecular alterations were found, mostly involving pituitary hormone responses. The particular pathways found suggested synaptic plasticity, learning and memory processes in the cleaner wrasse, while the client indicated stress relief.