Transcriptomic Signatures Suggest Epigenetic Programming of Molecular Defense in Biochar-Exposed Formica japonica

Abstract

Previous transcriptomic analyses revealed that exposing the ant species Formica japonica to biochar induces a priming effect that is sustained under heavy metal stress and enhances the ants' resilience. Re-evaluation of the data shows that biochar exposure acts as an epigenetic switch, programming the ants' defense mechanisms and enhancing their resilience to various environmental stressors. Exposure to humic-like substances, such as biochar leachate, prepares insects to withstand not only heavy metals but also other environmental challenges, such as exposure to xenobiotics, pathogens, and parasites.