Effect of Anticoagulant Rodenticides on the Gene Expression in the Bobcats (Lynx rufus) of the Santa Monica Mountains, CA

Anti-coagulant rodenticides (AR) are the primary chemical control method employed to control rodent populations worldwide. Despite recently implemented restrictions on the use of certain rodenticides in California in the last few years, AR exposure is still detected in multiple wildlife species, especially carnivores and raptors for which rodents are a staple food item. This is a major conservation concern as AR exposure poses a serious threat to wild populations. For example, our previous works showed a relationship between AR exposure and mange in bobcats (mortality) and distinct physiological differences between exposed and non exposed bobcats (immune dysregulation).

The first purpose of this study was to use gene expressions analyses to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying physiological phenotypes for bobcats exposed to ARs. Specifically, using a RNA-seq approach, we analyzed 19 samples of bobcats (8 wild non exposed, 2 captive non exposed, and 9 exposed) from 4 populations in the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreational Area (CA). We are using a combination of logistic regressions and WGCNA to identify important physiological outcomes that relate directly to difference in gene expression. 

Our second aim is to apply the results of these analyses to enhance prevention and treatments as well as use scientific findings to support legislation ending the use of ARs. We hope that a more thorough understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in such lethal effects will lead to further research on the reformulation of better methods of rodent control that do not pose a threat to non target wildlife.