Temnothorax nylanderi: DNA methylation and gene expression in caste, tissue, and parasitism
This project investigates epigenetic regulation in the social ant Temnothorax nylanderi by analyzing DNA methylation and gene expression in brain and fat body tissues across castes (queens and workers), as well as the impact of Anomotaenia brevis infection. Using robust biological replicates, we identify methylation patterns linked to caste differentiation, tissue identity, and parasite response. Our findings reveal distinct methylation landscapes associated with phenotypic plasticity and functional specialization, providing new insights into insect epigenetics and host-parasite interactions.