Genome-wide mRNA expression and methylation patterns of neural genes in response to prenatal hormones

We explored the molecular mechanisms that mediate changes in neural gene expression (i.e., hypothalamus and nucleus taenia of the amygdala) and aggression in male and female zebra finches (Taeniopygia guttata) exposed to prenatal testosterone. We used egg injections of testosterone or the vehicle to mimic maternal hormones, which are transferred to offspring during prenatal development. Many researchers have postulated that prenatal maternal hormones can generate adaptive phenotypic plasticity; however, no study has determined the mechanism facilitating these long-term changes. Thus, we analyzed neural tissues from behaviorally relevant brain regions for changes in gene expression via RNA-Seq and methylation via Methyl-Seq resulting from the prenatal hormone treatment. RNA- and Methyl-Seq profiles of two brain regions of zebra finches exposed to prenatal testosterone or a control.