Signaling pathways of heat- and hypersalinity-induced polyp bailout in Pocillopora acuta

Abstract Polyp bailout is a drastic response to acute stress where coral coloniality breaks down and polyps detach. We induced polyp in Pocillopora acuta with heat tested for differential gene expression using RNAseq qPCR assay. Furthermore, we hypersalinity compared the results identify stressor-independent signals pathways active during bailout. Both stressors led onset of detachment vital polyps. observed activation microbe-associated molecular pattern receptors downstream signaling innate immune system. Further, detected growth factors genes Wnt-signaling potentially contributing wound healing, regeneration, proliferation. Upregulation several encoding matrix metalloproteinases fibroblast factor pathway are most likely involved remodeling extracellular matrix, as well from calcareous skeleton Expression interest our assay heat-stress experiment, showed trend normalization after Our provide new insights into cascades leading physiological responses Comparison between two that certain independent stressor suggested general corals stress. system indicate partners may lead response.