Identification and expression of transient receptor potential (TRP) genes in Urechis unicinctus and the role of TRPC5 in immune response

Transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channels play crucial roles in mediating responses to environmental stimuli. In this study, we identified 64 TRP genes from 6 subfamilies in the Urechis unicinctus genome and characterized their genomic locations, gene structures, and basic physicochemical properties. We also analyzed their expression across various developmental stages, tissues, and environmental conditions. The results revealed that TRP gene expression varied throughout development and exhibited distinct tissue-specific patterns. Notably, we identified 20 TRP genes as putative transcriptional memory genes following sulfide stress and another 7 as temperature-sensitive. We also found that both short-term drought and ultraviolet radiation affected the expression of TRP genes in U. unicinctus. Our pharmacological experiments suggested that TRPC5 is positively involved in the immune response of U. unicinctus. Furthermore, TRPC5-mediated immunoenhancement correlated with increased weight gain and a higher visceral index. Collectively, our findings provide a valuable foundation for future research into the functional roles of TRP channels in U. unicinctus.

Environmental changes; Gene expression; Immune response; Transient receptor potential; Urechis unicinctus.