Distribution and diversity of ROS-generating enzymes across the animal kingdom, with a focus on sponges (Porifera)

Background: Reactive derivatives of oxygen (reactive oxygen species; ROS) are essential in signalling networks of all aerobic life. Redox signalling, based on cascades of oxidation-reduction reactions, is an evolutionarily ancient mechanism that uses ROS to regulate an array of vital cellular processes. Hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and superoxide anion (O₂^•-) are employed as signalling molecules that alter the oxidation state of atoms, inhibiting or activating gene activity. Here, we conduct metazoan-wide comparative genomic assessments of the two enzyme families, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and NADPH oxidases (NOX), that generate H₂O₂ and/or O₂^•- in animals.

Results: Using the genomes of 19 metazoan species representing 10 phyla, we expand significantly on previous surveys of these two ancient enzyme families. We find that the diversity and distribution of both the SOD and NOX enzyme families comprise some conserved members but also vary considerably across phyletic animal lineages. For example, there is substantial NOX gene loss in the ctenophore Mnemiopsis leidyi and divergent SOD isoforms in the bilaterians D. melanogaster and C. elegans. We focus particularly on the sponges (phylum Porifera), a sister group to all other metazoans, from which these enzymes have not previously been described. Within Porifera, we find a unique calcium-regulated NOX, the widespread radiation of an atypical member of CuZnSOD named Rsod, and a novel endoplasmic reticulum MnSOD that is prevalent across aquatic metazoans.

Conclusions: Considering the precise, spatiotemporal specificity of redox signalling, our findings highlight the value of expanding redox research across a greater diversity of organisms to better understand the functional roles of these ancient enzymes within a universally important signalling mechanism.