Vgll3 Gene Linked To Growth And Aging Patterns In Killifish

Recent research has identified the vestigial-like 3 (vgll3) gene as having opposing effects on early and late stages of life in the African turquoise killifish, a species known for its short lifespan and rapid maturation.

The African turquoise killifish, Nothobranchius furzeri, reaches sexual maturity within three to four weeks and typically lives for three to nine months in captivity. This species is often used in aging studies due to its brief life cycle and suitability for laboratory breeding.

Researchers have used CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing to study the function of the vgll3 gene in this species. The gene was identified as antagonistically pleiotropic, meaning it influences both early-life traits and late-life outcomes in different ways.

Disruption of vgll3 in male killifish led to faster growth and reproductive development. The effects depended on the specific isoform of the gene that was altered, as well as the extent of the disruption.

What the numbers show

• Killifish reach sexual maturity in 3–4 weeks
• Lifespan in captivity ranges from 3 to 9 months
• Vgll3 disruption increased age-related mortality in older males

Further experiments showed that older male killifish with the long isoform of vgll3 disrupted developed melanoma-like tumors when transplanted into immunodeficient rag2 models. This suggests a link between the gene's late-life effects and disease susceptibility.

Killifish with the disrupted long isoform of vgll3 also exhibited higher rates of age-related mortality. These findings indicate that while the gene's alteration can boost early-life fitness, it may have negative consequences for longevity and health in older fish.

The use of precise genome editing tools such as CRISPR/Cas9 has enabled these detailed functional studies in Nothobranchius furzeri. This approach allows researchers to investigate the genetic basis of life history traits in short-lived vertebrates.

By studying the effects of vgll3 in the African turquoise killifish, scientists are able to explore how single genes can influence both the pace of development and the onset of age-related decline within a single species.

* This article is based on publicly available information at the time of writing.