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Genome‐wide expression reveals multiple systemic effects associated with detection of anticoagulant poisons in bobcats ( Lynx rufus )
Author(s) -
Fraser Devaughn,
Mouton Alice,
Serieys Laurel E. K.,
Cole Steve,
Carver Scott,
Vandewoude Sue,
Lappin Michael,
Riley Seth P.D.,
Wayne Robert
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
molecular ecology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.619
H-Index - 225
eISSN - 1365-294X
pISSN - 0962-1083
DOI - 10.1111/mec.14531
Subject(s) - biology , gene , gene expression , population , carnivore , genome , rodent , immune system , zoology , genetics , ecology , predation , demography , sociology
Anticoagulant rodenticides ( AR s) are indiscriminate toxicants that threaten nontarget predatory and scavenger species through secondary poisoning. Accumulating evidence suggests that AR exposure may have disruptive sublethal consequences on individuals that can affect fitness. We evaluated AR ‐related effects on genome‐wide expression patterns in a population of bobcats in southern California. We identify differential expression of genes involved in xenobiotic metabolism, endoplasmic reticulum stress response, epithelial integrity and both adaptive and innate immune function. Further, we find that differential expression of immune‐related genes may be attributable to AR ‐related effects on leucocyte differentiation. Collectively, our results provide an unprecedented understanding of the sublethal effects of AR exposure on a wild carnivore. These findings highlight potential detrimental effects of AR s on a wide variety of species worldwide that may consume poisoned rodents and indicate the need to investigate gene expression effects of other toxicants added to natural environments by humans.