Isolation and primary structure of two peptides with cardioacceleratory and hyperglycemic activity from the corpora cardiaca of Periplaneta americana

Embryonic development of the Drosophila corpus cardiacum, a neuroendocrine gland with similarity to the vertebrate pituitary, is controlled by sine oculis and glass

We have investigated the development of the Drosophila neuroendocrine gland, the corpus cardiacum (CC), and identified the role of regulatory genes and signaling pathways in CC morphogenesis. CC progenitors segregate from the blastoderm as part of the anterior lip of the ventral furrow. Among the early genetic determinants expressed and required in this domain are the genes giant (gt) and sine oculis (so). During the extended germ band stage, CC progenitor cells form a paired cluster of 6-8 cells sandwiched in between the inner surface of the protocerebrum and the foregut. While flanking the protocerebrum, CC progenitors are in direct contact with the neural precursors that give rise to the pars intercerebralis, the part of the brain whose neurons later innervate the CC. At this stage, the CC progenitors turn on the homeobox gene glass (gl), which is essential for the differentiation of the CC. During germ band retraction, CC progenitors increase in number and migrate posteriorly, passing underneath the brain commissure and attaching themselves to the primordia of the corpora allata (CA). During dorsal closure, the CC and CA move around the anterior aorta to become the ring gland. Signaling pathways that shape the determination and morphogenesis of the CC are decapentaplegic (dpp) and its antagonist short gastrulation (sog), as well as hedgehog (hh) and heartless (htl; a Drosophila FGFR homolog). Sog is expressed in the midventral domain from where CC progenitors originate, and these cells are completely absent in sog mutants. Dpp and hh are expressed in the anterior visceral head mesoderm and the foregut, respectively; both of these tissues flank the CC. Loss of hh and dpp results in defects in CC proliferation and migration. Htl appears in the somatic mesoderm of the head and trunk. Although mutations of htl do not cause direct effects on the early development of the CC, the later formation of the ring gland is highly abnormal due to the absence of the aorta in these mutants. Defects in the CC are also caused by mutations that severely reduce the protocerebrum, including tailless (tll), suggesting that additional signaling events exist between brain and CC progenitors. We discuss the parallels between neuroendocrine development in Drosophila and vertebrates.

Mode of action of neuropeptides from the adipokinetic hormone family

Neuropeptides of the adipokinetic hormone (AKH) family regulate inter alia mobilisation of various substrates from stores in the fat body of insects during episodes of flight. How is this achieved? In insects which exclusively oxidise carbohydrates for flight (cockroaches), or which oxidise carbohydrates in conjunction with lipids (locusts) or proline (a number of beetles), the endogenous AKHs bind to a G(q)-protein-coupled receptor, activate a phospholipase C and the resulting inositol trisphosphate releases Ca(2+) from internal stores. In addition, influx of extracellular Ca(2+) is increased and, via a kinase cascade, glycogen phosphorylase is activated, glucose-1-phosphate produced, and transformed to trehalose, which is released into the haemolymph. In locusts, additionally, adenylate cyclase is activated and cyclic AMP is synthesised. In insects which use lipids for sustained flight (locust, tobacco hornworm moth) or proline for flight (certain beetles), adenylate cyclase is activated after the AKHs bind to their respective G(s)-protein-coupled receptor. The resulting cyclic AMP, together with the messengers intra- and extracellular Ca(2+), activate a triacylglycerol lipase, which results in the production of 1,2 diacylglycerols (in locusts, moths) or (hypothetically) free fatty acids (fruit beetle).

Molecular identification of a Drosophila G protein-coupled receptor specific for crustacean cardioactive peptide

The Drosophila Genome Project website (www.flybase.org) contains the sequence of an annotated gene (CG6111) expected to code for a G protein-coupled receptor. We have cloned this receptor and found that its gene was not correctly predicted, because an annotated neighbouring gene (CG14547) was also part of the receptor gene. DNA corresponding to the corrected gene CG6111 was expressed in Chinese hamster ovary cells, where it was found to code for a receptor that could be activated by low concentrations of crustacean cardioactive peptide, which is a neuropeptide also known to occur in Drosophila and other insects (EC(50), 5.4 x 10(-10)M). Other known Drosophila neuropeptides, such as adipokinetic hormone, did not activate the receptor. The receptor is expressed in all developmental stages from Drosophila, but only very weakly in larvae. In adult flies, the receptor is mainly expressed in the head. Furthermore, we identified a gene sequence in the genomic database from the malaria mosquito Anopheles gambiae that very likely codes for a crustacean cardioactive peptide receptor.

Molecular cloning and functional expression of a Drosophila corazonin receptor

The insect adipokinetic hormones (AKHs) constitute a large family of neuropeptides that mobilize lipids and sugar from the insect fat body during energy-requiring activities such as flight. We have previously identified the first insect AKH receptors from the fruitfly Drosophila melanogaster and the silkworm Bombyx mori (Staubli et al., PNAS 2002, 99: 3446-3451). Here, we have cloned the cDNA of a Drosophila G protein-coupled receptor that was closely related to the first Drosophila AKH receptor both with respect to amino-acid sequence and gene structure. We have subsequently expressed this orphan receptor in Chinese hamster ovary cells and identified Drosophila corazonin as the endogenous ligand for the receptor. Corazonin increases heart beat in some insects, but its function in Drosophila is unknown. These results are intriguing, because not only are the Drosophila AKH and corazonin receptors structurally and evolutionarily related, but also are their preprohormones, which suggests a co-evolution of ligands and receptors. The Drosophila corazonin receptor is expressed in embryos, larvae, pupae, and adult flies. Furthermore, a receptor that is structurally very similar to the Drosophila corazonin receptor can be found in the genomic database from the malaria mosquito Anopheles gambiae.

Control of phospholipase A(2) activity in cockroach (Periplaneta americana) fat body trophocytes by hypertrehalosemic hormone: the role of calcium

Recently, synthetic HTH-I and HTH-II have been shown to increase the formation of free fatty acids in cockroach (Periplaneta americana) fat body. In this study we show that HTH-II increases PLA(2) activity in dispersed trophocytes, thus implying that phospholipid is a potential source of the fatty acids. The increase in HTH-induced PLA(2) activity is triggered by an increase in [Ca(2+)](i) but extracellular Ca(2+) is also required for a maximal Ca(2+) signal: an effect that can be blocked by the introduction of BAPTA into the trophocytes. Treating trophocytes with ryanodine blocks the increase in PLA(2) activity that follows treatment of the cells with HTH-II. This indicates that the Ca(2+) release channels are distinct from those that respond to inositol trisphosphate. Thapsigargin, which releases Ca(2+) to the cytosol from an intracellular store, increases PLA(2) activity. The data show that the enzyme is translocated from the cytosol to the plasma membrane.

Neuropeptides in the nervous system of Drosophila and other insects: multiple roles as neuromodulators and neurohormones

Neuropeptides in insects act as neuromodulators in the central and peripheral nervous system and as regulatory hormones released into the circulation. The functional roles of insect neuropeptides encompass regulation of homeostasis, organization of behaviors, initiation and coordination of developmental processes and modulation of neuronal and muscular activity. With the completion of the sequencing of the Drosophila genome we have obtained a fairly good estimate of the total number of genes encoding neuropeptide precursors and thus the total number of neuropeptides in an insect. At present there are 23 identified genes that encode predicted neuropeptides and an additional seven encoding insulin-like peptides in Drosophila. Since the number of G-protein-coupled neuropeptide receptors in Drosophila is estimated to be around 40, the total number of neuropeptide genes in this insect will probably not exceed three dozen. The neuropeptides can be grouped into families, and it is suggested here that related peptides encoded on a Drosophila gene constitute a family and that peptides from related genes (orthologs) in other species belong to the same family. Some peptides are encoded as multiple related isoforms on a precursor and it is possible that many of these isoforms are functionally redundant. The distribution and possible functions of members of the 23 neuropeptide families and the insulin-like peptides are discussed. It is clear that each of the distinct neuropeptides are present in specific small sets of neurons and/or neurosecretory cells and in some cases in cells of the intestine or certain peripheral sites. The distribution patterns vary extensively between types of neuropeptides. Another feature emerging for many insect neuropeptides is that they appear to be multifunctional. One and the same peptide may act both in the CNS and as a circulating hormone and play different functional roles at different central and peripheral targets. A neuropeptide can, for instance, act as a coreleased signal that modulates the action of a classical transmitter and the peptide action depends on the cotransmitter and the specific circuit where it is released. Some peptides, however, may work as molecular switches and trigger specific global responses at a given time. Drosophila, in spite of its small size, is now emerging as a very favorable organism for the studies of neuropeptide function due to the arsenal of molecular genetics methods available.

Stimulation of trehalose efflux from cockroach (Periplaneta americana) fat body by hypertrehalosemic hormone is dependent on protein kinase C and calmodulin

Protein kinase C and calmodulin play key roles in cockroach fat body during activation of phosphorylase and trehalose efflux by HTH-II. The data support the view that an increase in cytosolic Ca2+ is prerequisite for enhanced activity of protein kinase C and calmodulin. Chelation of Ca2+ (i) with BAPTA blocks HTH-II-induced trehalose efflux from the fat body whereas thapsigargin, which raises [Ca2+]i to the same level as HTH-II, produces only a small, yet significant increase in trehalose efflux. Sphingosine, an inhibitor of protein kinase C, inhibits HTH-II-induced trehalose efflux in a concentration-dependent manner. Trehalose efflux is not activated by the protein kinase C activators OAG or PMA alone but in the presence of thapsigargin both agents increase trehalose efflux to a level comparable to that obtained with HTH-II. Thapsigargin has only a moderate activating effect on phosphorylase but in combination with OAG produces an activation indistinguishable from that provoked by HTH-II. Each of the structurally different calmodulin inhibitors, trifluoperazine, W-7, and calmidazolium, blocks completely the action of HTH-II on trehalose efflux, thus confirming the importance of calmodulin in HTH-II initiated trehalose efflux.

Molecular identification of the insect adipokinetic hormone receptors

The insect adipokinetic hormones (AKHs) are a large family of peptide hormones that are involved in the mobilization of sugar and lipids from the insect fat body during energy-requiring activities such as flight and locomotion, but that also contribute to hemolymph sugar homeostasis. Here, we have identified the first insect AKH receptors, namely those from the fruitfly Drosophila melanogaster and the silkworm Bombyx mori. These results represent a breakthrough for insect molecular endocrinology, because it will lead to the cloning of all AKH receptors from all model insects used in AKH research, and, therefore, to a better understanding of AKH heterogeneity and actions. Interestingly, the insect AKH receptors are structurally and evolutionarily related to the gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptors from vertebrates.

Identification of the cockroach neuropeptide Pea-CAH-II as a second adipokinetic hormone in the firebug Pyrrhocoris apterus

A new member of the AKH/RPCH family was isolated from the corpora cardiaca of the firebug Pyrrhocoris apterus. It is the second adipokinetic peptide identified in this species. The peptide was characterized and its structure was deduced from the multiple MS(N) electrospray mass spectra as that of an octapeptide with the sequence pGlu-Leu-Thr-Phe-Thr-Pro-Asn-Trp-NH(2.) The peptide differs from the original P. apterus AKH (Pya-AKH) by one amino acid in position 3. Topical application and/or injection of the peptide induced lipid mobilization, but was inactive in mobilization of carbohydrates.

Non-synaptic ion channels in insects--basic properties of currents and their modulation in neurons and skeletal muscles

Insects are favoured objects for studying information processing in restricted neuronal networks, e.g. motor pattern generation or sensory perception. The analysis of the underlying processes requires knowledge of the electrical properties of the cells involved. These properties are determined by the expression pattern of ionic channels and by the regulation of their function, e.g. by neuromodulators. We here review the presently available knowledge on insect non-synaptic ion channels and ionic currents in neurons and skeletal muscles. The first part of this article covers genetic and structural informations, the localization of channels, their electrophysiological and pharmacological properties, and known effects of second messengers and modulators such as neuropeptides or biogenic amines. In a second part we describe in detail modulation of ionic currents in three particularly well investigated preparations, i.e. Drosophila photoreceptor, cockroach DUM (dorsal unpaired median) neuron and locust jumping muscle. Ion channel structures are almost exclusively known for the fruitfly Drosophila, and most of the information on their function has also been obtained in this animal, mainly based on mutational analysis and investigation of heterologously expressed channels. Now the entire genome of Drosophila has been sequenced, it seems almost completely known which types of channel genes--and how many of them--exist in this animal. There is much knowledge of the various types of channels formed by 6-transmembrane--spanning segments (6TM channels) including those where four 6TM domains are joined within one large protein (e.g. classical Na+ channel). In comparison, two TM channels and 4TM (or tandem) channels so far have hardly been explored. There are, however, various well characterized ionic conductances, e.g. for Ca2+, Cl- or K+, in other insect preparations for which the channels are not yet known. In some of the larger insects, i.e. bee, cockroach, locust and moth, rather detailed information has been established on the role of ionic currents in certain physiological or behavioural contexts. On the whole, however, knowledge of non-synaptic ion channels in such insects is still fragmentary. Modulation of ion currents usually involves activation of more or less elaborate signal transduction cascades. The three detailed examples for modulation presented in the second part indicate, amongst other things, that one type of modulator usually leads to concerted changes of several ion currents and that the effects of different modulators in one type of cell may overlap. Modulators participate in the adaptive changes of the various cells responsible for different physiological or behavioural states. Further study of their effects on the single cell level should help to understand how small sets of cells cooperate in order to produce the appropriate output.

Synthesis of lipids in the fat body of Gryllus bimaculatus: age-dependency and regulation by adipokinetic hormone

The free abdominal fat body of adult female Mediterranean field crickets, Gryllus bimaculatus, synthesizes lipids from [1-(14)C]-acetate in vitro. Up to an age of 12h, the incorporation of acetate into lipids is very low and then rises to a maximum 24h after adult emergence. Thereafter, the incorporation of acetate decreases to moderate levels at day 2 and then slowly decreases until day 30. The adipokinetic hormone of G. bimaculatus (Grb-AKH) significantly inhibits the incorporation of acetate at a concentration of 10(-11) M; maximum inhibition (approximately 95%) is reached at 10(-8) M. The inhibiting effect of Grb-AKH is fast, dose-dependent, and reversible. The periovaric fat body shows a similar pattern of acetate incorporation, although rates of incorporation are lower; the incorporation can be inhibited by Grb-AKH as well. The segmental abdominal fat body and the fat body from the head both incorporate acetate into lipids at low rates that cannot be inhibited significantly by AKH. Prepurified brain extracts significantly inhibit acetate incorporation by free abdominal fat bodies at a concentration of 0.1 brain equivalent. Allatostatins and crustacean cardioactive peptide, which are both present in cricket brains, are not responsible for this inhibiting effect. Octopamine causes a dose-dependent inhibition of acetate incorporation whereas synephrine had no such effect. The inhibiting effect of Grb-AKH on the formation of lipid stores in the fat body and its consequences for reproductive processes are discussed.

Myostimulatory neuropeptides in cockroaches: structures, distribution, pharmacological activities, and mimetic analogs

In this brief overview we give the historical background on the discovery of myostimulatory neuropeptides in cockroaches. Related peptides were later found in other insect groups as well. We summarize the current knowledge on primary structures, localization, physiological and pharmacological effects of the different cockroach neuropeptides, including kinins, sulfakinins, pyrokinins, tachykinin-related peptides, periviscerokinins, corazonin, and proctolin. In addition, we briefly comment on the development of mimetic pseudopeptide analogs in the context of their possible use in insect pest management.

A third active AKH is present in the pyrgomorphid grasshoppers Phymateus morbillosus and Dictyophorus spumans

The corpora cardiaca of the African pyrgomorphid grasshoppers Phymateus morbillosus and Dictyophorus spumans contain three adipokinetic hormones (AKHs): besides two already known AKHs, Phm-AKH-I and Scg-AKH-II (Gäde et al., 1996 [Gäde, G., Kellner, R., Rinehart, K.L., 1996. Pyrgomorphid grasshoppers of the genus Phymateus contain species-specific decapeptides of the AKH/RPCH family regulating lipid-mobilisation during flight. Physiol. Entomol. 21, 193-202]), a new AKH-III, denoted Phm-AKH-III, pGlu-Ile-Asn-Phe-Thr-Pro-Trp-Trp-NH(2), has been characterised. This is only the second AKH-III identified so far, thus, only three insect species - all of them grasshoppers - contain three active AKHs. Phm-AKH-III differs from Lom-AKH-III from the migratory locust, Locusta migratoria, only in position 2: isoleucine is present instead of leucine. The structure of the Phm-AKH-III was confirmed by synthesis, subsequent mass determination and reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography. The synthetic peptide also induced hyperlipaemia in D. spumans and L. migratoria.

The unique neuropeptide pattern in abdominal perisympathetic organs of insects

We successfully isolated and identified the abundant neuropeptides of the abdominal perisympathetic organs of the American cockroach, including all myoactive compounds. Peptide sequence analysis and mass spectrometry of abundant substances that were not bioactive in different muscle assays yielded the following sequences: TDPLWQLPGAHLEQYLS-NH2 (Pea-YLS-amide), AFLTLTPGSHVDSYVEA-OH (Pea-VEAacid), and SDLTWTYQSPGDPTNSKN-OH (Pea-SKNacid). The given structures led to the conclusion of an unique neuropeptide pattern in abdominal perisympathetic organs. We confirmed this assumption with immunocytochemical studies, using antisera raised against different myotropic neuropeptides of the abdominal perisympathetic organs. Moreover, mass spectrometric methods, developed for the investigation of single neurohemal organs, confirmed the neuropeptide pattern in these organs.

Allatostatin-like and AKH/HrTH-like peptides in the aphid Megoura viciae

Knowledge of the structures of neuropeptides that regulate development, metabolism, and behaviour in insects is extensive, but nothing is known of the identity of regulatory peptides in the aphid neuroendocrine system. The present study applies a radioimmunoassay to reveal the existence of at least two allatostatin-like peptides in the aphid, Megoura viciae. Immunocytochemistry using antibodies recognising cockroach and dipteran allatostatins (Dip-AST-7 and Cav-AST-1) revealed the presence of allatostatin-like peptides in the protocerebrum of the brain, in the supraoesophageal ganglion, and in the fused thoracic ganglia. Both the corpora cardiaca and the corpus allatum, as well as the nervi corporis cardiaci I, stained strongly with the allatostatin antibodies. AKH/ HrTH-like peptides were detected in extracts of M. viciae using conspecific bioassays for hypertrehalosaemic and hyperlipaemic activity. Endocrine cells of the corpora cardiaca contained AKH-like material that reacted to antibodies directed to the N- and C-terminus of Lom-AKH-I. Antibodies specific for the C-terminus of Lom-AKH-I gave extensive staining in the brain and immunoreactive fibres were also found in the suboesophageal and fused thoracic ganglia. In contrast, staining with antibodies recognising the N-terminus of Lom-AKH-I was restricted to the corpora cardiaca and a region of the pars intercerebralis. There was no difference between apterous and alate morphs of M. viciae in the distribution of both AKH-like and allatostatin-like peptides. These results suggest an endocrine role for AKH/HrTH and allatostatin-like peptides in aphids.

Hormonal activation of phosphorylase in cockroach fat body trophocytes: A correlation with trans-membrane calcium flux

This study is an investigation of the temporal relationship between transmembrane Ca(2+) fluxes, and glycogen phosphorylase activation in dispersed trophocytes from the fat body of the cockroach, Periplaneta americana. Phosphorylase is maximally activated within 5 min after treating the trophocytes with either of the hypertrehalosemic hormones, Pea-HTH-I and Pea-HTH-II. Activation caused by Pea-HTH-II is sustained for a longer period than that produced by Pea-HTH-I. Chelation of extracellular Ca(2+) with EGTA blocks the activation of phosphorylase by HTH. Similarly, chelation of intracellular Ca(2+) with Quin 2 greatly diminishes the phosphorylase activating effect of both HTHs. The data support the view that an increase in the intracellular Ca(2+ )concentration is required for the activation of phosphorylase and that extracellular Ca(2+) is an essential, although not necessarily sole, source of Ca(2+) for this purpose. Using (45)Ca(2+) to trace the movement of Ca(2+) following a challenge with either Pea-HTH-I or -II, it was shown that (45)Ca(2+)influx nearly doubled during the first 30 s. At this time, the trophocytes begin to expel Ca(2+) at a rate higher than that of untreated cells and this state persists for approximately 4 min. The Ca(2+) fluxes are consistent with its postulated role in the activation of phosphorylase. Arch.

A cardioactive peptide from the southern armyworm, Spodoptera eridania

A cardioactive peptide was isolated from extracts of whole heads of the southern armyworm, Spodoptera eridania. This peptide has the sequence ENFAVGCTPGYQRTADGRCKPTF (Mr = 2516.8), determined from both Edman sequencing and tandem mass spectrometry in combination with off-line micropreparative capillary liquid chromatography. This peptide, termed Spoer-CAP23, has excitatory effects on a semi-isolated heart from larval Manduca sexta, causing an inotropic effect at low concentrations of peptide and chronotropic and inotropic effects at high doses. The threshold concentration for stimulatory effects of the synthetic peptide on the semi-isolated heart was about 1 nM, suggesting a physiological role as a neuropeptide.

Evidence for the participation of arachidonic acid metabolites in trehalose efflux from the hormone activated fat body of the cockroach (Periplaneta americana)

The hypertrehalosemic hormones, HTH-I and HTH-II, activate trehalose synthesis and increase the rate of sugar efflux from Periplaneta americana fat body in vitro. These processes are unaffected by the diacylglycerol, 1-oleyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycerol, an activator of protein kinase C. Similarly, H-7 and spingosine, inhibitors of protein kinase C, are also inactive against trehalose efflux. The possibility that diacylglycerol lipase might generate an active fatty acid species was ruled out because of the failure of the inhibitor RHC-80267 to inhibit trehalose efflux. Activation of trehalose efflux from the intact fat body by HTH-I was strongly inhibited in a concentration dependent manner by the cyclooxygenase inhibitors indomethacin and diclofenac, but not by acetylsalicylic acid. Nordihydroguaiaretic acid, a lipoxygenase inhibitor, also blocked HTH-I activated trehalose efflux in a concentration dependent fashion. The phospholipase A(2) inhibitors mepacrine and 4'-bromophenacyl bromide were also effective in decreasing the efflux of trehalose from HTH-I challenged fat body. The data suggest possible roles for arachidonic acid metabolites in the regulation of trehalose synthesis and in the efflux of the sugar from the fat body.

Feeding effects on gene expression of the hypertrehalosemic hormone in the cockroach, Blaberus discoidalis

Feeding effects on hypertrehalosemic hormone (HTH) transcript levels in corpora cardiaca (CC) of adult females of the cockroach, Blaberus discoidalis were measured using dot blot hybridization. HTH transcript levels were nearly doubled in CC from females withheld from food and water for ten days compared to CC from fed females. The increase in HTH-mRNA was a response to starvation, not dehydration, and reversed within 2 days after exposure to food. HTH-mRNA was elevated in CC from fed insects that had their recurrent nerve severed, but low fecal output by insects with severed nerves indicated that feeding and digestion were impaired. Thus, the increased HTH synthesis likely resulted from starvation rather than disruption of neural regulation. CC from starved females that were refed with either solutions or agar that contained glucose did not show down-regulation of HTH-mRNA. Likewise, injections of glucose or trehalose did not suppress HTH-mRNA levels in CC of starving insects. Down-regulation of the starvation-related increase in HTH-mRNA appears to be a response to consumption of a complex of nutrients and not to increased carbohydrates or mechanical aspects of feeding.

Isolation of periviscerokinin-2 from the abdominal perisympathetic organs of the American cockroach, Periplaneta americana

Using the isolated hyperneural muscle as bioassay, a novel myotropin was isolated from the abdominal perisympathetic organs of Periplaneta americana. This is the second neuropeptide identified from insect perisympathetic organs. Peptide sequence analysis and mass spectrometry yielded the following structure: Gly-Ser-Ser-Ser-Gly-Leu-Ile-Ser-Met-Pro-Arg-Val-NH2. This peptide, named periviscerokinin-2, was confirmed to be amidated by chemical synthesis, bioassay, and comparison of retention times between native and synthetic peptides. A highly specific antiserum was used to determine sites of synthesis in the abdominal ganglia. Besides periviscerokinin-1, periviscerokinin-2 is the only putative myotropic neurohormone from the abdominal perisympathetic organs that is effective in the nanomolar range. This confirms the hypothesis that the neurohormonal system of the ventral nerve cord is remarkably different from that of the brain.

Isolation and structural elucidation of eight kinins from the retrocerebral complex of the American cockroach, Periplaneta americana

By monitoring the contractile activity of the hindgut of the American cockroach in vitro eight myotropic neuropeptides were isolated from the retrocerebral complex of the American cockroach. Peptide sequence analysis and mass spectrometry yielded the following structures: Arg- Pro-Ser-Phe-Asn-Ser-Trp-Gly-NH2 (Pea-K-1), Asp-Ala-Ser-Phe-Ser-Ser-Trp-Gly-NH2 (Pea-K-2), Asp-Pro-Ser-Phe-Asn-Ser-Trp-Gly-NH2 (Pea-K-3), Gly-Ala-Gln-Phe-Ser-Ser-Trp-Gly-NH2 (Pea-K-4), Ser-Pro-Ala-Phe-Asn-Ser-Trp-Gly-NH2 (Pea-K-5), Asp-Pro-Ala-Phe-Ser-Ser-Trp-Gly-NH2 (Lem-K-7), Gly-Ala-Asp-Phe-Tyr-Ser-Trp-Gly-NH2 (Lem-K-8) and Ala-Phe-Ser-Ser-Trp-Gly-NH2 (Lom-K). The C-terminal sequence Phe-X-Ser-Trp-Gly-NH2 characterized the peptides as members of the insect kinin family. All structures were confirmed by comparison of retention times between synthetic and natural peptides. The threshold concentration for stimulatory effects of the synthetic peptides on the isolated hindgut was about 10(-9) M and there was no significant difference measured between the different kinin forms. These neuropeptides are the first members of the insect kinin-family isolated from the American cockroach. Their occurrence in the retrocerebral complex suggests a physiological role as neurohormone.

Structures, assays and receptors for locust adipokinetic hormones

This review is concerned mainly with the adipokinetic hormones (AKHs) of locusts: their molecular conformations, actions and functions and the development of microfiltration assays in vitro. The physiological significance of having multiple hormones with overlapping actions whose efficacy changes during development is discussed in relation to the possibility that these reflect variations in populations of receptors and/or the pharmacokinetics of the peptides. The involvement of second messengers in the transduction mechanism of AKHs is reviewed, and we describe hormone-induced changes of intracellular calcium in single dispersed fat body cells. The structure activity relationships of the three locust AKHs and a number of analogues with variations at the N- and C-termini are discussed. A number of areas are identified where there are gaps in our understanding of these hormones, and some of these will be the focus of our future research.

Isolation and structural elucidation of two pyrokinins from the retrocerebral complex of the American cockroach

By monitoring the contractile activity of the hyperneural muscle of the American cockroach in vitro two peptides were isolated from the retrocerebral complex of the American cockroach. Three purification steps using reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography on C-18 columns containing trifluoroacetic acid or heptafluorobutyric acid as organic modifiers were sufficient to achieve homogeneous peptide preparations. The structures of both peptides were elucidated by a combination of Edman degradation and mass spectrometry which yielded the following structures: His-Thr-Ala-Gly Phe-Ile-Pro-Arg-Leu-NH2 (Pea-PK-1) and Ser-Pro-Pro-Phe-Ala-Pro-Arg-Leu-NH2 (Pea-PK-2). The C-terminal sequence Phe-X-Pro-Arg-Leu-NH2 characterized the peptides as members of the insect pyrokinin family. The synthetic peptides were shown to have the same retention times as the natural peptides. The occurrence of both peptides in the retrocerebral complex suggests a physiological role as neurohormones. The effects of the synthetic pyrokinis were clearly distinguishable in their actions on the hyperneural muscle. Regarding the threshold concentrations, Pea-PK-2 was only 0.3% as active as Pea-PK-1.

The regulation of trehalose metabolism in insects

Trehalose is a non-reducing disaccharide comprising two glucose molecules. It is present in high concentration as the main haemolymph (blood) sugar in insects. The synthesis of trehalose in the fat body (an organ analogous in function to a combination of liver and adipose tissue in vertebrates) is stimulated by neuropeptides (hypertrehalosaemic hormones), released from the corpora cardiaca, a neurohaemal organ associated with the brain. The peptides cause a decrease in the content of fructose 2,6-biphosphate in fat body cells. Fructose 2,6-biphosphate, acting synergistically with AMP, is a potent activator of the glycolytic enzyme 6-phosphofructokinase-1 and a strong inhibitor of the gluconeogenic enzyme fructose 1,6-biphosphatase. This indicates that fructose 2,6-biphosphate is a key metabolic signal in the regulation of trehalose synthesis in insects. Trehalose is hydrolysed by trehalase (E.C. 3.2.1.28). The activity of this enzyme is regulated in flight muscle, but the mechanism by which this is achieved is unknown. Trehalase from locust flight muscle is a glycoprotein bound to membranes of the microsomal fraction. The enzyme can be activated by detergents in vitro and by short flight intervals in vivo, which indicates that changes in the membrane environment modulate trehalase activity under physiological conditions.

Isolation, identification, and synthesis of Mas-MG-MT I, a novel peptide from the larval midgut of Manduca sexta (Lepidoptera: Sphingidae)

A five-residue myotropic peptide, Manduca sexta midgut myotropin I (Mas-MG-MT I), was isolated from an extract of 800 midguts of fifth instar larvae of the tobacco hornworm, Manduca sexta. It was purified by reverse phase and normal phase HPLC. Myotropic activity was screened by a heterologous Locusta migratoria oviduct bioassay. Sequence analysis, amino acid composition analysis, and comparison of candidate synthetic peptides in the amide and acid form revealed the following primary structure: Ala-Glu-Pro-Tyr-Thr-NH2. This is the first fully identified peptide isolated directly from the midgut of an insect species. Few significant sequence homologies with known vertebrate and invertebrate peptides have been found.

The detection of AKH/HrTH-like peptides in Ascaridia galli and Ascaris suum using an insect hyperglycaemic bioassay

Evidence for the presence of adipokinetic hormone/hypertrehalosaemic hormone (AKH/HrTH)-like peptides in the parasitic nematodes Ascaridia galli and Ascaris suum has been obtained using insect bioassays which measure hyperglycaemic responses to peptides belonging to the AKH/HrTH family of insect hormones. A peptide fraction extracted from heads and tails of Ascaridia galli evoked a dose-dependent hyperglycaemic response when injected into the cockroach, Periplaneta americana. Maximal bioactivity was obtained with material that was equivalent to 38 mg (wet weight) of nematode. Bioactivity appeared to be highest in extracts from heads and tails of both male and female worms and could be fractionated into at least three peaks of hyperglycaemic activity by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography. An extract from heads and tails of A. suum also evoked a hyperglycaemic response when injected into the cockroach, Blaberus discoidalis. The bioactivity was inactivated on incubation with pure endopeptidase 24.11, confirming the peptidic nature of the bioactive material. These results provide evidence for the existence of peptides related to the insect AKH/HrTH family of peptides in parasitic nematodes.

Neurohormone D induces ionic current changes in cockroach central neurones

The octapeptide neurohormone D (NHD), a member of the family of adipokinetic hormones (AKH-peptides), increases the frequency of spontaneous activity in dorsal unpaired median (DUM) neurones isolated from the terminal ganglion of the cockroach Periplaneta americana. The increase in spike frequency is accompanied by changes in the shape and the amplitude of the single action potentials, e.g. a more pronounced afterhyperpolarization. Effects of NHD on membrane currents were investigated in these DUM cells with whole-cell voltage-clamp measurements. A voltage-independent Ca2+ current flowing at the resting potential (ICa,R) was found. NHD, at nanomolar concentrations, enhanced this ICa,R in a concentration-dependent manner. 0.1 mM Cd2+ markedly reduced ICa,R and in this case ICa,R was hardly potentiated by NHD. In the presence of NHD a fast activating Ca(2+)-dependent K+ current sensitive to charybdotoxin and to low concentrations of tetraethylammonium was augmented. The enhanced afterhyperpolarization of action potentials can be accounted for by the increase in the Ca(2+)-dependent K+ current. The changes of the membrane currents induced by NHD are discussed with respect to further effects on the spike pattern and in relation to the previously described mode of action of AKH-peptides in other preparations.

Isolation and identification of a cardioactive peptide from Tenebrio molitor and Spodoptera eridania

We isolated several cardioactive peptides from extracts of whole heads of the mealworm, Tenebrio molitor, and the southern armyworm, Spodoptera eridania, using a semi-isolated heart of Manduca sexta for bioassay. We have now isolated from each species the peptide with the strongest effect on rate of contraction of the heart. The peptides were identified using micro Edman sequencing and mass spectrometric methods. This cardioactive peptide has the same primary structure from both species: Pro-Phe-Cys-Asn-Ala-Phe-Thr-Gly-Cys-NH2, a cyclic nonapeptide which is identical to crustacean cardioactive peptide (CCAP) originally isolated from the shore crab, Carcinus maenas, and subsequently isolated from Locusta migratoria and Manduca sexta. This is additional evidence that CCAP has widespread occurrence in arthropoda.

Localization of corazonin in the nervous system of the cockroach Periplaneta americana

Antisera raised to the cardioactive peptide corazonin were used to localize immunoreactive cells in the nervous system of the American cockroach. Sera obtained after the seventh booster injection were sufficiently specific to be used for immunocytology. They recognized a subset of 10 lateral neurosecretory cells in the protocerebrum that project to, and arborize and terminate in the ipsilateral corpus cardiacum. They also reacted with bilateral neurons in each of the thoracic and abdominal neuromeres, a single dorsal unpaired median neuron in the suboesophageal ganglion, an interneuron in each optic lobe, and other neurons at the base of the optic lobe, in the tritocerebrum and deutocerebrum. The presence of corazonin in the abdominal neurons and the lateral neurosecretory cells was confirmed by HPLC fractionation of extracts of the abdominal ganglia, brains and retrocerebral complexes, followed by determination of corazonin by ELISA, which revealed in each tissue a single immunoreactive peak co-eluting with corazonin in two different HPLC systems. Antisera obtained after the first three booster injections recognized a large number of neuroendocrine cells and neurons in the brain and the abdominal nerve cord. However, the sera from the two rabbits reacted largely with different cells, indicating that the majority of this immunoreactivity was due to cross-reactivity. These results indicate that the production of highly specific antisera to some neuropeptides may require a considerable number of booster injections.

Insect neuropeptides: discovery and application in insect management

New approaches to the development of insect control agents have been revealed through the molecular description of neuropeptides, their biogenesis, action, and degradation. Prerequisite to the exploitation of a neuropeptide as a lead to control agent development is a thorough understanding of the biochemistry of the neuropeptide and appreciation of its physiological impact. Reliable bioassays must be coupled with advanced biochemical and molecular genetic technologies to overcome limitations imposed by the typically low endogenous levels of individual neuropeptides. Purification, amino acid sequencing, and gene cloning provide the molecular tools necessary for studies on neuropeptide synthesis, processing, secretion, receptor binding, and inactivation. Each of these areas consists of a number of amino acid sequence-, and enzyme-dependent steps which may be considered as targets for the development of highly specific control agents. These agents will include antagonist and superagonists, peptidomimetics, recombinant peptides delivered through the baculovirus technology, receptor blockers, and enzyme inhibitors.

Crustacean neuropeptides: structures, functions and comparative aspects

In this article, an attempt is made to review the presently known, completely identified crustacean neuropeptides with regard to structure, function and distribution. Probably the most important progress has been made in the elucidation of a novel family of large peptides from the X-organ-sinus gland system which includes crustacean hyperglycemic hormone (CHH), putative molt-inhibiting hormone (MIH) and vitellogenesis (= gonad)-inhibiting hormone (VIH). These peptides have so far only been found in crustaceans. Renewed interest in the neurohemal pericardial organs has led to the identification of a number of cardioactive/myotropic neuropeptides, some of them unique to crustaceans. Important contributions have been made by immunocytochemical mapping of peptidergic neurons in the nervous system, which has provided evidence for a multiple role of several neuropeptides as neurohormones on the one hand and as local transmitters or modulators on the other. This has been corroborated by physiological studies. The long-known chromatophore-regulating hormones, red pigment concentrating hormone (RPCH) and pigment-dispending hormone (PDH), have been placed in a broader perspective by the demonstration of an additional role as local neuromodulators. The scope of crustacean neuropeptide research has thus been broadened considerably during the last years.

Stimulation of carbohydrate metabolising enzymes by synthetic hypertrehalosemic peptides in thoracic musculature of the American cockroach, Periplaneta americana

The ability of the synthetic hypertrehalosemic peptides, HT-I and HT-II, to influence the activities of glycogen phosphorylase, trehalase and hexokinase via elevation of Ca++ and cAMP levels was examined in thoracic musculature of the American cockroach, Periplaneta americana. The peptides effect dose- and time-dependent activation of phosphorylase, trehalase and hexokinase activities that occur concomitantly with elevated levels of intracellular calcium. In addition, HT-I increases the accumulation of cyclic AMP in muscle cells.

The fruitfly Drosophila melanogaster contains a novel charged adipokinetic-hormone-family peptide

A member of the RPCH/AKH (red-pigment-concentrating hormone/adipokinetic hormone) family of arthropod neuropeptides was identified in the fruitfly Drosophila melanogaster, and its structure was determined by automated Edman degradation and m.s. using fast-atom-bombardment ionization and a tandem hybrid instrument capable of high sensitivity. The sequence of this peptide, which we call 'DAKH', is pGlu-Leu-Thr-Phe-Ser-Pro-Asp-Trp-NH2 (where pGlu is pyroglutamic acid and Trp-NH2 is tryptophan carboxyamide). H.p.l.c. analyses of extracts of the three body segments revealed that more than 80% of the peptide is contained in the thorax. Although DAKH is typical of family members in its general structure and distribution in the animal, it is unique in containing a residue which is charged under physiological conditions. The evolutionary significance of this change is considered.

Isolation and structure of a novel charged member of the red-pigment-concentrating hormone-adipokinetic hormone family of peptides isolated from the corpora cardiaca of the blowfly Phormia terraenovae (Diptera)

A hypertrehalosaemic neuropeptide from the corpora cardiaca of the blowfly Phormia terraenovae has been isolated by reversed-phase h.p.l.c., and its primary structure was determined by pulsed-liquid phase sequencing employing Edman chemistry after enzymically deblocking the N-terminal pyroglutamate residue. The C-terminus was also blocked, as indicated by the lack of digestion when the peptide was incubated with carboxypeptidase A. The octapeptide has the sequence pGlu-Leu-Thr-Phe-Ser-Pro-Asp-Trp-NH2 and is clearly defined as a novel member of the RPCH/AKH (red-pigment-concentrating hormone/adipokinetic hormone) family of peptides. It is the first charged member of this family to be found. The synthetic peptide causes an increase in the haemolymph carbohydrate concentration in a dose-dependent fashion in blowflies and therefore is named 'Phormia terraenovae hypertrehalosaemic hormone' (Pht-HrTH). In addition, receptors in the fat-body of the American cockroach (Periplaneta americana) recognize the peptide, resulting in carbohydrate elevation in the blood. However, fat-body receptors of the migratory locust (Locusta migratoria) do not recognize this charged molecule, and thus no lipid mobilization is observed in this species.

Structure-function studies on neurohormone D: activity of naturally-occurring hormone analogues

The relative potencies of 11 naturally-occurring peptides of the adipokinetic hormone/red pigment-concentrating hormone family (AKH/RPCH-family) have been assessed with respect to increase in heart rate in adult, female American cockroaches, Periplaneta americana, in in vitro and in vivo bioassays. In addition, analogues that lacked the N-terminal pyroglutamate residue or had a free threonine acid at the C-terminus were also investigated. In both bioassays the N- or C-terminal-modified analogues give no or little response suggesting that blocked termini are essential for receptor-binding. In both bioassays the naturally-occurring peptide from the cockroach corpus cardiacum Pea-CAH-I (neurohormone D) is more potent than the second endogenous peptide, Pea-CAH-II. On the basis of this result and previous data it is proposed that neurohormone D is the only physiologically important "true" cardioactive peptide. The dose-response curves of the other peptides indicate that in octapeptides, amino acid residues at positions 2, 6, and 7 are important for receptor-recognition, and that decapeptides are not as effective as octapeptides (exception: the peptide Rom-CC-I isolated from the grasshopper Romalea microptera).

The putative ancestral peptide of the adipokinetic/red-pigment-concentrating hormone family isolated and sequenced from a dragonfly

A neuropeptide with adipokinetic activity in Locusta migratoria and hypertrehalosaemic activity in Periplaneta americana was purified by reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography from the corpus cardiacum of the dragonfly, Libellula auripennis. After brief enzymatic digestion by 5-oxoprolyl-peptidase the primary structure of the peptide was determined by pulsed-liquid phase sequencing employing Edman degradation. As the peptide was not cleaved by carboxypeptidase the C-terminus was blocked, too. The peptide was assigned as a blocked uncharged octapeptide: Glu-Val-Asn-Phe-Thr-Pro-Ser-TrpNH2. The synthetic peptide was chromatographically indistinguishable from the natural compound and, upon injection in low quantities into dragonflies, elicited mainly haemolymph lipids. Therefore it is called dragonfly adipokinetic hormone (Lia-AKH). It is a new member of the large AKH/RPCH family of peptides. Because of its structural features and its origin from a very primitive insect order it is assumed to represent the putative ancestral peptide of this family. Synthesis was shown to occur in the corpus cardiacum by in vitro incorporation of tritium-labelled Trp into Lia-AKH.

Structure-activity relationships on hyperglycemia by representatives of the adipokinetic/hyperglycemic hormone family in Blaberus discoidalis cockroaches

Several members of the adipokinetic/hyperglycemic neurohormone family from several different invertebrate species have been prepared by solid-phase peptide synthesis and assayed by a modified in vivo hyperglycemic bioassay in Blaberus discoidalis cockroaches. The hypertrehalosemic hormone (HrTH) is the endogenous hypertrehalosemic factor for B. discoidalis and was the most potent peptide in the assay. The more divergent the sequence of a family member from Blaberus HrTH, the less potent was the bioanalog. Manduca adipokinetic hormone is the most divergent peptide of the family and was totally inactive in the bioassay. Locusta adipokinetic hormone I had reduced maximum activity in the assay, which suggests that Ser5 is an important residue for the transduction of the hyperglycemic response. The direct relation between bioanalog similarity to Blaberus HrTH sequence and potency suggests that the hormone and target cell receptor for HrTH have evolved to maintain an "optimal fit".

Primary structures of hypertrehalosaemic neuropeptides isolated from the corpora cardiaca of the cockroaches Leucophaea maderae, Gromphadorhina portentosa, Blattella germanica and Blatta orientalis and of the stick insect Extatosoma tiaratum assigned by tandem fast atom bombardment mass spectrometry

Hypertrehalosaemic peptides were isolated by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography from corpora cardiaca of four species of cockroaches (Leucophaea maderae, Gromphadorhina portentosa, Blattella germanica, and Blatta orientalis) and one stick insect species (Extatosoma tiaratum), and their primary sequences were assigned by collision-induced decomposition tandem fast atom bombardment mass spectrometry (FABMS/CID/MS). The members of the cockroach families Blaberidae (L. maderae and G. portentosa) and Blattellidae (B. germanica) contained an identical decapeptide (Glu-Val-Asn-Phe-Ser-Pro-Gly-Trp-Gly-ThrNH2), whereas the member of the cockroach family Blattidae (B. orientalis) had two octapeptides (Glu-Val-Asn-Phe-Ser-Pro-Asn-TrpNH2 and Glu-Leu-Thr-Phe-Thr-Pro-Asn-TrpNH2). The structure of the stick insect hypertrehalosaemic compound was assigned as a decapeptide (Glu-Leu-Thr-Phe-Thr-Pro-Asn-Trp-Gly-ThrNH2). The respective synthetic peptides elevated blood carbohydrates in their respective acceptor species. The results are discussed in the light of family-specificity of members of the adipokinetic hormone/red pigment-concentrating hormone family.

Locustatachykinin I and II, two novel insect neuropeptides with homology to peptides of the vertebrate tachykinin family

Two myotropic peptides termed locustatachykinin I (Gly-Pro-Ser-Gly-Phe-Tyr-Gly-Val-Arg-NH2) and locustatachykinin II (Ala-Pro-Leu-Ser-Gly-Phe-Tyr-Gly-Val-Arg-NH2) were isolated from brain-corpora cardiaca-corpora allata-suboesophageal ganglion extracts of the locust, Locusta migratoria. Both peptides exhibit sequence homologies with the vertebrate tachykinins. Sequence homology is greater with the fish and amphibian tachykinins (up to 45%) than with the mammalian tachykinins. In addition, the intestinal myotropic activity of the locustatachykinins is analogous to that of vertebrate tachykinins. The peptides discovered in this study may just be the first in a whole series of substances from arthropod species to be identified as tachykinin family peptides. Moreover, both chemical and biological similarities of vertebrate and insect tachykinins substantiate the evidence for a long evolutionary history of the tachykinin peptide family.

Isolation and structure of corazonin, a cardioactive peptide from the American cockroach

Corazonin, a new cardioaccelerating peptide, has been isolated from the corpora cardiaca of the American cockroach, Periplaneta americana, and its structure determined to be Glp-Thr-Phe-Gln-Tyr-Ser-Arg-Gly-Trp-Thr-Asn-amide. The peptide stimulated heart beat at concentrations as low as 0.2 nM, which makes it the most potent insect cardioactive neuropeptide.

Isolation and structure of two novel 6-kDa dimeric peptides from the corpora cardiaca of the insect Locusta migratoria. Molecular mass determination by mass spectrometry

We have isolated two major 6-kDa peptides from extracts of corpora cardiaca of adult females of Locusta migratoria. These peptides have been characterized by peptide sequencing and liquid secondary-ion mass spectrometry. They are structurally related dimers, one (6278.5 Da) being a homodimer (A-A chains), the other (6280.5 Da) being a heterodimer (A-B chains). A 60% similarity exists between the A and B chains. Both peptides have been chemically synthesized and the synthetic compounds appeared to be identical to the native ones. Polyclonal antibodies raised against each of these peptides demonstrated that they were contained within the secretory granules of the intrinsic cells of the glandular lobes of the corpora cardiaca. The physiological significance of these two peptides is unknown but, using the synthetic peptides, we are currently probing their biological role.

Characterisation of neuropeptides of the AKH/RPCH-family from corpora cardiaca of Coleoptera

Extracts of corpora cardiaca from two members of the family Tenebrionidae. Zophobas rugipes and Tenebrio molitor, from one member of the Chrysomelidae, Leptinotarsa decemlineata, and from three members of the Scarabaeidae, Pachnoda marginata, P. sinuata and Melolontha hippocastani, were assayed for adipokinetic and hypertrehalosaemic activity in acceptor locusts (Locusta migratoria) and cockroaches (Periplaneta americana), respectively. All corpus cardiacum material tested, except that from the cockchafer, M. hippocastani, gave positive bioassay results. Biological activities of corpus cardiacum extracts from all species investigated can be resolved on reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC). Gland extracts from the two tenebrionid species each show a single peak of biological activity associated with a single peak of UV absorbance having an identical retention time in both species. The two biologically active fractions from the corpora cardiaca of the potato beetle, L. decemlineata, coelute with exogenous (synthetic) hypertrehalosaemic hormones I and II of the American cockroach. The two species of the genus Pachnoda contain two active compounds in their glands; compound I of each species is more abundant and elutes just ahead of the (synthetic) hypertrehalosaemic hormone of the cockroach Blaberus discoidalis. The gland material of M. hippocastani exhibits an absorbance peak with the same retention time as the major peak from the Pachnoda-species; however, this peak material does not elicit biological activity in the assays used here. After fractionation by RP-HPLC the main biologically active compounds were subjected to amino acid analyses. All factors are peptidic and contain 8 amino acid residues.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)