Conclusions
Here, we demonstrate differential expression of specific genes and
widespread small, coordinated changes in expression of genes
belonging to relevant functional categories in the CNS and eyes
following short-term exposure of male I. pygmaeus to OA. We also
report genes correlated with both CO2 treatment and
OA-affected behaviours, indicating these genes as potentially correlated
with CO2-induced behavioural change in I.
pygmaeus . The results identify alterations in the transcriptional
profile of genes implicated in neurotransmission, neuroplasticity,
immune function and oxidative stress. These molecular changes may
contribute to OA-induced behavioural change, as suggested by
correlations between gene expression profiles, CO2treatment and OA-affected behaviours. Our results build on existing
knowledge and provide novel hypotheses for future experiments, including
electrophysiological and behavioural tests, to determine the range of
processes responsible for behavioural changes in marine animals exposed
to projected future OA conditions.