Transcriptomic Insights into Post-Spawning Aging and Muscle Atrophy in Ayu Plecoglossus altivelis

In semelparous species like the ayu (Plecoglossus altivelis), spawning is followed by rapid physiological decline and death, yet the underlying molecular mechanisms remain largely unexplored. This study examines transcriptomic changes in ayu skeletal muscle before and after spawning, with a focus on key genes and pathways contributing to muscle atrophy and metabolic dysfunction. Through RNA sequencing and DEG analysis, we identified over 3,000 DEGs, GSEA and KEGG pathway analysis revealed significant downregulation of energy metabolism and protein degradation.