Journal Article
From whole bodies to single cells: A guide to transcriptomic approaches for ecology and evolutionary biology
Katja M. Hoedjes; Sonja Grath; Nico Posnien; Michael G. Ritchie; Christian Schlötterer; Jessica K. Abbott; Isabel Almudi; Marta Coronado‐Zamora; Esra Durmaz Mitchell; Thomas Flatt; Claudia Fricke; Amanda Glaser‐Schmitt; Josefa González; Luke Holman; Maaria Kankare; Benedict Lenhart; Dorcas J. Orengo; Rhonda R. Snook; Vera M. Yılmaz; Leeban Yusuf
Molecular Ecology · Vol. 34, Issue 15 · 2025
Abstract
RNA sequencing (RNAseq) methodology has experienced a burst of technological developments in the last decade, which has opened up opportunities for studying the mechanisms of adaptation to environmental factors at both the organismal and cellular level. Selecting the most suitable experimental approach for specific research questions and model systems can, however, be a challenge and researchers in ecology and evolution are commonly faced with the choice of whether to study gene expression variation in whole bodies, specific tissues, and/or single cells. A wide range of sometimes polarised opinions exists over which approach is best. Here, we highlight the advantages and disadvantages of each of these approaches to provide a guide to help researchers make informed decisions and maximise the power of their study. Using illustrative examples of various ecological and evolutionary research questions, we guide the readers through the different RNAseq approaches and help them identify the most suitable design for their own projects.