Breakthrough discovery on the green mussel genome – The recent sequencing of the genome of the Asian green mussel (Perna viridis) by the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) represents a major breakthrough for the aquaculture sector in India. This discovery, involving one of the main bivalve species cultivated in the country, promises to improve farming practices, increasing productivity and sustainability of the sector.
The Asian green mussel, known locally as kallummakkaya, has long been a valuable resource for aquaculture, but only now are the genetic secrets behind its success being revealed. Genome sequencing at the chromosomal level of this species offers new possibilities for genomic selection, promoting more efficient growth and reproduction of specimens and improving their resistance to disease, one of the industry’s biggest obstacles.
The project, led by a team of scientists led by Dr. Sandhya Sukumaran, marked the first sequencing of a marine invertebrate in India, paving the way for new applications in both aquaculture and medical research. Among the 49,654 protein-coding genes identified, 634 genes associated with the cancer pathway and 408 linked to viral carcinogenesis were found. This makes the Asian green mussel a potential new model organism for the study of cancer mechanisms, with implications far beyond the fish sector.
Parallel to applications in the field of human health, the discovery of the Asian green mussel genome also offers significant advantages for environmental monitoring. The species has a remarkable capacity to accumulate heavy metals and pollutants, making it a natural biomonitor for water quality. The genetic markers developed as a result of this research will allow for better monitoring and management of pollutants in water bodies, a crucial step for the conservation of the aquatic environment.
This discovery will not only improve breeding practices, but also represents a breakthrough in the fight against parasitic diseases affecting mussels. The genomic information obtained from sequencing will provide a deeper understanding of the genes and mechanisms involved in disease resistance, helping breeders to develop more effective preventive strategies.
In summary, the sequencing of the Perna viridis genome not only revolutionises bivalve aquaculture, but also makes a significant contribution to biomedical research and environmental protection. The future of aquaculture in India now looks more promising, sustainable and scientifically advanced, thanks to these new discoveries.
Breakthrough discovery on the green mussel genome
