Neuronal transcriptome of Loligo pealei

The squid, Loligo is a classical model to study mechanisms of exitability. However, little is known about the molecular organization of its nervous system. Here, using pyrosequencing approach we performed analysis of transcripts expressed in the central nervous system of Loligo. Specifically, we developed a reduced representation sequencing method that can detect low abundant transcripts. Our method greatly reduces the amount of sequencing with more accurate quantification. Basically, sequential addition of adaptors paired with controlled digestion of cDNA generates a one transcript on read type of analysis. Combined 5' with 3' targeted libraries produces greater coverage of individual transcripts and high quality assembly. Our initial analysis allowed us to identify major components of signal transduction pathways essential for future analysis of molecular bases of neuronal functions in this model organism.