Identification and Characterization of GYS and GSK3ß Provides Insights into the Regulation of Glycogen Synthesis in Jinjiang Oyster Crassostrea ariakensis

Glycogen, a stored form of glucose, is an important form of energy for aquatic shellfish, contributing to the flavor and quality of the oyster. The glycogen synthase (GYS) and glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta(GSK3 beta) are two major enzymes in the glycogenesis. However, the information of the two genes in the Jinjiang oyster Crassostrea ariakensis remains limited. In this study, we identified the genes of GYS and GSK3 beta and further explored their function in the glycogen synthesis of C. ariakensis. The GYS and GSK3 beta were distributed in all tested tissues, and high expression of GYS and glycogen content were detected in the gonad, labial palp, hepatopancreas, and mantle, while the high expression of GSK3 beta was observed in the gill and adductor muscle. The expression of GYS was positively correlated with the glycogen content, while GSK3 beta was negatively correlated. Additionally, knockdown of GSK3 beta using RNAi decreased the GYS expression, revealing the negative regulatory effect of GSK3 beta on GYS. These findings enrich the research data of GSK3 beta and GYS involved in glycogen synthesis, providing valuable information for further research on the function of GSK3 beta and GYS in the glycogen synthesis process of oyster.

Automated summary

Glycogen, an important energy form for aquatic shellfish, contributes to the flavor and quality of oysters. In this study, the genes GYS and GSK3 beta were identified and their functions in glycogen synthesis were explored. The expression of GYS was positively correlated with glycogen content, while the expression of GSK3 beta was negatively correlated. Knockdown of GSK3 beta reduced GYS expression, indicating its negative regulatory effect.