A Single-Cell Atlas of Coral Bleaching

Abstract

Coral bleaching, a major threat to reef ecosystems, involves the breakdown of the symbiosis between coral hosts and their photosynthetic endosymbionts (Symbiodiniaceae). To characterize the cellular and molecular changes underlying bleaching at single-cell resolution, we generated a single-cell RNA-sequencing atlas of the coral Acropora cervicornis during a thermally-induced bleaching experiment. Our atlas captures diverse host cell types, including immune, digestive, and endodermal cells, as well as distinct Symbiodiniaceae cell states. We identify key transcriptional signatures associated with bleaching stress, including dysregulation of symbiosis-maintenance pathways, activation of immune responses, and metabolic shifts in both host and symbiont cells.

Anthony Bonacolta

PhD Student · Now Postdoctoral Fellow at The University of British Columbia

My current research focuses on understanding the roles of micro-eukaryotes and bacteria in marine organisms. Initially, I will be researching the coral holobiont during bleaching from a single-cell perspective.

Jordi Nonell

PhD Student

My current research focuses on understanding the roles of micro-eukaryotes and bacteria in marine organisms. Initially, I will be researching the coral holobiont during bleaching from a single-cell perspective.

Javier del Campo

Group Leader

My research aims at understanding the global diversity and distribution of eukaryotic and prokaryotic microbes employing curated phylogenetic frameworks focusing on novel environmental taxa.