Long non-coding RNAs of the trematode Himasthla elongata (Mehlis, 1831) (Trematoda, Himasthlidae)

The molecular mechanisms regulating the life cycle of trematodes remain largely unexplored to date. It is hypothesized that the non-coding portion of the genome, particularly long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and repetitive elements, plays a key role in this regulation. In this study, we present the first identification of lncRNAs in the trematode Himasthla elongata based on transcriptome analysis combined with repeat homology assessment. Approximately half of the identified lncRNAs contain transposon-derived regions, reflecting the fact that transposable elements occupy 57.5% of the genome. The expression of several lncRNAs was confirmed across the redia, cercaria, and metacercaria life stages. These findings provide a basis for further study of the role of mobile elements in the formation of regulatory RNAs and in the evolution of transcription regulation mechanisms in trematodes.