Abstract

The sustainable growth of abalone (Haliotis discus hannai) aquaculture requires reliable systems for seed quality verification and health assessment. Conventional morphological indicators are limited in sensitivity and speed, highlighting the need for molecular biomarkers. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) identified through next generation sequencing (NGS) offer promising candidates, but their applicability as biomarker genes must be validated under controlled stress conditions. Juvenile abalones (2.2-2.3 cm shell length) were subjected to mechanical injury and oxidative stress (H2O2 exposure). Gill tissues were sampled at 3 h and 18 h post treatment, and gene expression was analyzed by quantitative real‑time PCR (qPCR). Candidate biomarker genes included ferritin, Hsp70, IL‑17, and NF‑κB, representing oxidative defense, stress response, immune activation, and inflammatory regulation, respectively. Ferritin expression was significantly upregulated under both mechanical injury and oxidative stress, with the highest induction at 18 h, reflecting its role in iron storage and oxidative defense. Hsp70 showed rapid induction at 3 h, consistent with acute stress responses, and remained elevated at 18 h. IL‑17 expression increased at both time points, indicating sustained immune activation in response to tissue damage and oxidative stimuli. NF-κB expression increased after 3 and 18 h, highlighting the role of NF-κB in initiating and maintaining the inflammatory response. These findings demonstrate that ferritin, Hsp70, IL‑17, and NF‑κB are responsive to mechanical and oxidative stress, supporting their utility as biomarker genes for assessing abalone health. The study establishes an experimental model to evaluate the applicability of NGS‑derived DEGs as biomarkers, providing a foundation for the development of molecular based systems for seed quality verification and aquaculture health monitoring. Ultimately, this approach is expected to contribute to the sustainable growth of the abalone industry by improving disease resistance, enhancing stock quality, and advancing health management strategies.