Transcriptome analysis reveals the genetic basis underlying the formation and seasonal changes of nuptial pads in Rana chensinensis

The study explores the genetic basis of nuptial pad formation and seasonal changes in the Chinese brown frog, Rana chensinensis, using transcriptome analysis. Researchers identified 1,956 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in nuptial pads during the breeding season, with a significant number of genes highly expressed in males. This number decreased significantly in the post-breeding season. Key genes such as keratin 75 and those involved in melanin synthesis were upregulated, contributing to structural and color changes in the pads. The study highlights the role of biological processes like protein synthesis, metabolic processes, and apoptotic regulation in nuptial pad development, providing insights into the molecular evolution of sexual dimorphism in anurans. Further experimental validation is needed to fully understand the functions of the identified genes.