De novo transcriptome analysis reveals insights into different mechanisms of growth and immunity in a Chinese soft-shelled turtle hybrid and the parental varieties
Heterosis was investigated in Chinese soft-shelled turtles (Pelodiscus sinensis). Transcriptomes of the parents and resulting hybrid were assembled de novo. Gene expression differences between the hybrid and parental lines were analyzed. We identified 20 transcripts involved in growth, immunity and signal transduction. These findings offer new insights into potential selective breeding strategies.