Characterization of the myostatin gene in the gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata): sequence, genomic structure, and expression pattern.

We report on the sequence and expression analysis of the myostatin gene (MSTN) in the gilthead seabream Sparus aurata. A 2189-bp transcript was isolated, encoding an open reading frame (385 amino acids) that showed 74% to 60% protein similarity with other vertebrate myostatins. Phylogenetic analysis of MSTN and other related genes confirmed the evolutionary relationships of the isolated sequence. The complete sequences of two introns were also determined. Intron-exon boundaries were conserved when compared with those of mammalian MSTN genes, whereas intron size was smaller. Reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction on total RNA extracted from different tissues and developmental stages revealed MSTN expression in the skeletal muscle, but also in other tissues. The observed expression profile differed from that in mammals, suggesting possible additional functions of myostatin in the teleost fish.