Comparative study of gene expression during early vertebrate development between Xenopus laevis and Sturgeon

Sturgeon and Xenopus is estimated to be separate by about 400 My of evolution. We have collected data on temporal expression profile in Sturgeon in order to compare the level and timing of expression for homologous pairs of genes, commonly referred to as hetero-metry and hetero-chrony. Following up our previously published research on similar comparison between two species of Xenopus separated by estimated 50 My, we are asking whether patterns of expression and signaling cascades of two key developmental periods - gastrulation and neurulation are implemented via conserved molecular basis. Uncovering and describing deviation for the conserved expression program as well as the composition of maternal deposit will provide new insights into vertebrate development both the normal course and developmental abnormalities. Overall design: mRNA from 24 sturgeon embryo samples each at a different developmental stage