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Pereira KE, Deslouches JT, Deslouches B, Woodley SK. In Vitro Investigation of the Antibacterial Activity of Salamander Skin Peptides. Curr Microbiol 2023; 80:214. [PMID: 37195436 DOI: 10.1007/s00284-023-03320-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Given the current and future costs of antibiotic-resistant bacteria to human health and economic productivity, there is an urgent need to develop new antimicrobial compounds. Antimicrobial peptides are a promising alternative to conventional antibiotics and other antimicrobials. Amphibian skin is a rich source of bioactive compounds, but the antibacterial properties of salamander skin peptides have been neglected. Here, we examined the in vitro ability of skin peptides from 9 species of salamander representing 6 salamander families to inhibit the growth of ESKAPE pathogens, which are bacteria that have developed resistance to conventional antibiotics. We also examined whether the skin peptides caused lysis of human red blood cells. Skin peptides from Amphiuma tridactylum had the greatest antimicrobial properties, completely inhibiting the growth of all bacterial strains except for Enterococcus faecium. Likewise, skin peptides from Cryptobranchus alleganiensis completely inhibited the growth of several of the bacterial strains. In contrast, skin peptide mixtures from Ambystoma maculatum, Desmognathus fuscus, Eurycea bislineata, E. longicauda, Necturus beyeri, N. maculosus, and Siren intermedia did not completely inhibit bacterial growth even at the highest concentrations. Finally, none of the skin peptide mixtures caused lysis of human red blood cells. Together, we demonstrate that salamander skin produces peptides with potent antibacterial properties. It remains to elucidate the peptide sequences and their antibacterial mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenzie E Pereira
- Department of Biological Sciences, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | | | - Berthony Deslouches
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Sarah K Woodley
- Department of Biological Sciences, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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2
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Ruhland F, Gabant G, Toussaint T, Nemcic M, Cadène M, Lucas C. Reproductives signature revealed by protein profiling and behavioral bioassays in termite. Sci Rep 2023; 13:7070. [PMID: 37127756 PMCID: PMC10151321 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-33252-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Proteins are known to be social interaction signals in many species in the animal kingdom. Common mediators in mammals and aquatic species, they have seldom been identified as such in insects' behaviors. Yet, they could represent an important component to support social signals in social insects, as the numerous physical contacts between individuals would tend to favor the use of contact compounds in their interactions. However, their role in social interactions is largely unexplored: are they rare or simply underestimated? In this preliminary study, we show that, in the termite Reticulitermes flavipes, polar extracts from reproductives trigger body-shaking of workers (a vibratory behavior involved in reproductives recognition) while extracts from workers do not. Molecular profiling of these cuticular extracts using MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry reveals higher protein diversity in reproductives than in workers and a sex-specific composition exclusive to reproductives. While the effects observed with extracts are not as strong as with live termites, these results open up the intriguing possibility that social signaling may not be limited to cuticular hydrocarbons or other non-polar, volatile chemicals as classically accepted. Our results suggest that polar compounds, in particular some of the Cuticular Protein Compounds (CPCs) shown here by MALDI to be specific to reproductives, could play a significant role in insect societies. While this study is preliminary and further comprehensive molecular characterization is needed to correlate the body-shaking triggering effects with a given set of polar compounds, this exploratory study opens new perspectives for understanding the role of polar compounds such as proteins in caste discrimination, fertility signaling, or interspecific insect communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanny Ruhland
- Institut de Recherche sur la Biologie de l'Insecte (UMR7261), CNRS - University of Tours, Tours, France
| | - Guillaume Gabant
- Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire (UPR 4301), CNRS - University of Orléans, Orléans, France
| | - Timothée Toussaint
- Institut de Recherche sur la Biologie de l'Insecte (UMR7261), CNRS - University of Tours, Tours, France
| | - Matej Nemcic
- Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire (UPR 4301), CNRS - University of Orléans, Orléans, France
| | - Martine Cadène
- Centre de Biophysique Moléculaire (UPR 4301), CNRS - University of Orléans, Orléans, France
| | - Christophe Lucas
- Institut de Recherche sur la Biologie de l'Insecte (UMR7261), CNRS - University of Tours, Tours, France.
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3
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Gouzerh F, Ganem G, Pichevin A, Dormont L, Thomas F. Ability of animals to detect cancer odors. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2023; 1878:188850. [PMID: 36528192 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2022.188850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The olfactory capacity of animals has long been used by humans to help with various activities, e.g., hunting, detecting mines, locating people, and diagnosing diseases. Cancer is among the leading diseases causing death worldwide. Several recent studies have underscored the benefit of using scent to detect cancer, and this paper will review the studies using animals to detect tumor scents. A large variety of animals have been used for this purpose-dogs, rodents, insects, and nematodes-and have shown their capacity to detect cancer, with a success rate close to 90%. Here we discuss these studies, their methodologies, and the animal models used. Finally, we discuss the medical perspectives for cancer diagnosis using odors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flora Gouzerh
- Centre de Recherches Écologiques et Évolutives sur le Cancer, Maladies Infectieuses et Vecteurs: Ecologie, Génétique, Evolution et Contrôle, UMR IRD 224- CNRS 5290- Université de Montpellier, 34394 Montpellier, France; Centre d'Ecologie Fonctionnelle et Evolutive, Université́ de Montpellier, CNRS, EPHE, IRD, Université Paul Valéry Montpellier 3, 34293 Montpellier, France.
| | - Guila Ganem
- Institut des Sciences de l'Evolution, ISEM, Université Montpellier, CNRS, IRD, 34095 Montpellier, France
| | - Anaïs Pichevin
- Centre d'Ecologie Fonctionnelle et Evolutive, Université́ de Montpellier, CNRS, EPHE, IRD, Université Paul Valéry Montpellier 3, 34293 Montpellier, France
| | - Laurent Dormont
- Centre d'Ecologie Fonctionnelle et Evolutive, Université́ de Montpellier, CNRS, EPHE, IRD, Université Paul Valéry Montpellier 3, 34293 Montpellier, France
| | - Frédéric Thomas
- Centre de Recherches Écologiques et Évolutives sur le Cancer, Maladies Infectieuses et Vecteurs: Ecologie, Génétique, Evolution et Contrôle, UMR IRD 224- CNRS 5290- Université de Montpellier, 34394 Montpellier, France
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4
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Ruiz-Monachesi MR, Abdala CS, Cruz FB. Allometry and morphological integration shape the chemical detection system in Liolaemus lizards (Squamata, Iguania). ZOOL ANZ 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcz.2022.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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5
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Ryerson WG, Schwenk K. The kinematics and functional significance of chemosensory tongue-flicking in northern water snakes (Nerodia sipedon) on land, in water, and in between. Integr Comp Biol 2022; 62:852-864. [PMID: 35657730 DOI: 10.1093/icb/icac077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
As organisms transition between different environments, they must do more than simply move through that transition and those environments. Changes in the environment must be detected via the senses. The types of sensory information and the mechanisms of collecting that information may also change as an individual moves through different environments. We use tongue-flicking in northern water snakes, Nerodia sipedon, to examine the mechanics of sensory behavior as snakes move from terrestrial to aquatic habitats. A combination of high-speed video and mesocosm experiment revealed that water snakes will alter the mechanics of tongue-flicking in the context of their environment. Tongue-flicks on land are distinctive, with multiple oscillations, large protrusion distance, and high velocities. Comparatively, tongue-flicks under water are much shorter events, with reduced protrusion and fewer oscillations. At the surface of the water, in the presence of potential anuran prey, water snakes will tap the tips of the tongue on the surface of the water, without undergoing the full oscillations observed on land or underwater. We attribute the differences in the aerial and underwater tongue-flicks to trade-offs in the physical and chemical properties of the environment. The surface tapping behavior we observed is likely snakes altering their behavior to maximize the encounter and collection of frog-specific chemical cues, which are known to travel on the water's surface. Given the ecological transitions and distinctive biogeographical patterns rooted in water snake ecology, there are likely more examples of changing sensory mechanics to be discovered upon further investigation. All our knowledge begins with the senses. (Immanuel Kant, Critique of Pure Reason, 1781).
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Affiliation(s)
- William G Ryerson
- Biology Department, Saint Anselm College. 100 Saint Anselm Drive, Manchester, NH 03102.,Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269-3043
| | - Kurt Schwenk
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269-3043
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Akat E, Yenmiş M, Pombal MA, Molist P, Megías M, Arman S, Veselỳ M, Anderson R, Ayaz D. Comparison of Vertebrate Skin Structure at Class Level: A Review. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2022; 305:3543-3608. [DOI: 10.1002/ar.24908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Esra Akat
- Ege University, Faculty of Science, Biology Department Bornova, İzmir Turkey
| | - Melodi Yenmiş
- Ege University, Faculty of Science, Biology Department Bornova, İzmir Turkey
| | - Manuel A. Pombal
- Universidade de Vigo, Departamento de Bioloxía Funcional e Ciencias da Saúde, Facultade de Bioloxía‐IBIV Vigo, España
| | - Pilar Molist
- Universidade de Vigo, Departamento de Bioloxía Funcional e Ciencias da Saúde, Facultade de Bioloxía‐IBIV Vigo, España
| | - Manuel Megías
- Universidade de Vigo, Departamento de Bioloxía Funcional e Ciencias da Saúde, Facultade de Bioloxía‐IBIV Vigo, España
| | - Sezgi Arman
- Sakarya University, Faculty of Science and Letters, Biology Department Sakarya Turkey
| | - Milan Veselỳ
- Palacky University, Faculty of Science, Department of Zoology Olomouc Czechia
| | - Rodolfo Anderson
- Departamento de Zoologia, Instituto de Biociências Universidade Estadual Paulista São Paulo Brazil
| | - Dinçer Ayaz
- Ege University, Faculty of Science, Biology Department Bornova, İzmir Turkey
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Schulte LM, Martel A, Cruz-Elizalde R, Ramírez-Bautista A, Bossuyt F. Love bites: male frogs (Plectrohyla, Hylidae) use teeth scratching to deliver sodefrin precursor-like factors to females during amplexus. Front Zool 2021; 18:59. [PMID: 34823558 PMCID: PMC8613984 DOI: 10.1186/s12983-021-00445-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Efficient transfer of chemical signals is important for successful mating in many animal species. Multiple evolutionary lineages of animals evolved direct sex pheromone transmission during traumatic mating-the wounding of the partner with specialized devices-which helps to avoid signal loss to the environment. Although such direct transmission modes of so-called allohormone pheromones are well-documented in invertebrates, they are considered rare in vertebrates. Males of several species of the frog genus Plectrohyla (Hylidae, Anura) have elongated teeth and develop swollen lips during the breeding season. Here we investigated the possibility that these structures are used to scratch the females' skin and apply allohormone pheromones during traumatic mating in several Plectrohyla species. RESULTS Our behavioural observations revealed that males press their upper jaw onto the females' dorsum during amplexus, leaving small skin scratches with their teeth. Histological examinations of the males' lips identified specialized mucus glands, resembling known amphibian pheromone glands. Whole-transcriptome sequencing of these breeding glands showed high expression of sodefrin precursor-like factor (SPF) proteins, which are known to have a pheromone function in multiple amphibian species. CONCLUSIONS Our study suggests SPF delivery via traumatic mating in several anuran species: the males have specialized breeding glands in the lips for production and secretion and use their elongated teeth as wounding devices for application. We hypothesize that these SPF proteins end up in the females' circulatory system, where understanding their exact function will require further molecular, physiological and behavioural testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M Schulte
- Department of Wildlife-/Zoo-Animal-Biology and Systematics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Goethe University Frankfurt, Max-von-Laue-Str. 13, 60438, Frankfurt/Main, Germany.
| | - An Martel
- Wildlife Health, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Raciel Cruz-Elizalde
- Laboratorio de Zoología, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Avenida de Las Ciencias S/N, Santa Fe Juriquilla, C. P. 76230, Querétaro, Mexico
| | - Aurelio Ramírez-Bautista
- Laboratorio de Ecología de Poblaciones, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas, Instituto de Ciencias Básicas E Ingeniería, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Hidalgo, Km 4.5 carretera Pachuca-Tulancingo, 42184, Mineral de La Reforma, Hidalgo, Mexico
| | - Franky Bossuyt
- Amphibian Evolution Lab, Biology Department, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Pleinlaan 2, 1050, Brussels, Belgium
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8
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Zimmer RK, Ferrier GA, Zimmer CA. Chemosensory Exploitation and Predator-Prey Arms Races. Front Ecol Evol 2021. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2021.752327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Thousands of armed predatory species, distributed widely across the metazoan tree-of-life, consume only hard-shell or exoskeleton-bearing organisms (called “durophagy”). Prey armor clearly has evolved in response to selection by predators, but there is little evidence of the contrary, counter-adaptation by predators. Evolved consumer responses to prey, in general, might be more readily expressed in ways other than morphological traits, including via sensory cues. Here, we explored the chemosensory basis for durophagy in a model predator-prey system, and identified intimate associations between durophagous predators and their shelled prey. Barnacles (Balanus glandula and Semibalanus cariosus) bear hard shells and secrete, respectively, a 199 or 201 kDa glycoprotein ortholog (named “MULTIFUNCin”), with expression limited to the body armor (epidermis, cuticle, and live shell). To test for effects of MULTIFUNCin on predators, we constructed faux prey to mimic meaningful physical and chemical characteristics of live barnacles. In separate experiments, each consumer species was presented MULTIFUNCin, purified from either B. glandula or S. cariosus, at a typical armor concentration. All six predatory species (sea star, Pisaster ochraceus; whelks, Acanthinucella spirata, Nucella emarginata, N. ostrina, N. canaliculata, and N. lamellosa) attacked and ate MULTIFUNCin-infused faux prey significantly more than controls. Akin to barnacles, secretion of glycoprotein-rich extracellular matrices is common among armored prey species—from marine sponges to terrestrial vertebrates. Our results, therefore, suggest that chemosensory exploitation of glycoproteins could be widespread, with notable consequences for life on land and in the sea.
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9
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Schulz S, Poth D, Peram PS, Hötling S, Menke M, Melnik K, Röpke R. Chemical Diversity of Volatile Macrocylic Lactones from Frogs. Synlett 2021. [DOI: 10.1055/a-1381-2881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
AbstractFor a long time, frogs were believed to communicate primarily via the acoustic channel, but during the last decades it became obvious that various lineages also use chemical communication. In this Account we present our research on the identification of volatile lactones from Madagascan Mantellidae and African Hyperoliidae frogs. Both possess male specific glands that can disseminate a range of volatile compounds. Key constituents are macrocyclic lactones. They show high variability in structure and occurrence. We focus here on the synthetic approaches we have used to clarify constitution and configuration of the glandular compounds. Key synthetic methods are ring-closing metathesis and nucleophilic epoxide opening. Often, but not always, the natural compounds occurs in amounts that excludes their investigation by NMR spectroscopy. Instead, we use GC/MS analysis, GC/IR, microreactions, and synthesis to identify such components. Several aspects of our work will be described giving some insight in our scientific approach.1 Introduction2 Macrocylic Lactones from the Fatty Acid Biosynthetic Pathway3 Unsaturated Lactones4 Terpenoid Lactones5 Macrolide Occurrence6 Conclusions
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10
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Herrboldt MA, Steffen MA, McGouran CN, Bonett RM. Pheromone Gene Diversification and the Evolution of Courtship Glands in Plethodontid Salamanders. J Mol Evol 2021; 89:576-587. [PMID: 34392385 DOI: 10.1007/s00239-021-10026-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Proteinaceous pheromones that diversify through gene duplication can result in shifts in courtship cocktails that may serve as a mechanism for reproductive isolation. The molecular evolution of pheromones has been extensively studied in salamanders, but how these genes and associated novel courtship glands have codiversified has not been evaluated. In this study we used transcriptional analyses to examine the relationship between pheromone diversification and gland type in three divergent lineages of plethodontid salamanders. Our results revealed that plethodontid salamanders express up to eight divergent Sodefrin Precursor-like Factor genes (spf, representing both alpha and beta subfamilies) along with Plethodontid Modulating Factor (pmf) and Plethodontid Receptivity Factor (prf). Expression of pheromone genes is tissue specific with pmf, prf, and some spf genes restricted to the mental gland. In contrast, the caudal gland shows strong expression of the other spf genes. We found evidence for punctuated changes in pheromone cocktail composition related to the loss of metamorphosis, and subsequent extreme reduction of the mental gland, in a paedomorphic lineage. Our study provides insight into how pheromone diversification can be partitioned into unique glands, which may lead to cocktail specificity in behavioral modules during courtship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madison A Herrboldt
- Department of Biological Science, University of Tulsa, Tulsa, OK, 74104, USA.
| | - Michael A Steffen
- Department of Biological Science, University of Tulsa, Tulsa, OK, 74104, USA
| | - Carissa N McGouran
- Department of Biological Science, University of Tulsa, Tulsa, OK, 74104, USA
| | - Ronald M Bonett
- Department of Biological Science, University of Tulsa, Tulsa, OK, 74104, USA
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11
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Woodley SK, Staub NL. Pheromonal communication in urodelan amphibians. Cell Tissue Res 2021; 383:327-345. [PMID: 33427952 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-020-03408-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Pheromonal communication is an ancient and pervasive sensory modality in urodelan amphibians. One family of salamander pheromones (the sodefrin precursor-like factor (SPF) family) originated 300 million years ago, at the origin of amphibians. Although salamanders are often thought of as relatively simple animals especially when compared to mammals, the pheromonal systems are varied and complex with nuanced effects on behavior. Here, we review the function and evolution of pheromonal signals involved in male-female reproductive interactions. After describing common themes of salamander pheromonal communication, we describe what is known about the rich diversity of pheromonal communication in each salamander family. Several pheromones have been described, ranging from simple, invariant molecules to complex, variable blends of pheromones. While some pheromones elicit overt behavioral responses, others have more nuanced effects. Pheromonal signals have diversified within salamander lineages and have experienced rapid evolution. Once receptors have been matched to pheromonal ligands, rapid advance can be made to better understand the olfactory detection and processing of salamander pheromones. In particular, a large number of salamander species deliver pheromones across the skin of females, perhaps reflecting a novel mode of pheromonal communication. At the end of our review, we list some of the many intriguing unanswered questions. We hope that this review will inspire a new generation of scientists to pursue work in this rewarding field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah K Woodley
- Department of Biological Sciences, Duquesne University, 600 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15282, USA.
| | - Nancy L Staub
- Biology Department, Gonzaga University, Spokane, WA, 99203, USA
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12
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Pereira KE, Woodley SK. Skin defenses of North American salamanders against a deadly salamander fungus. Anim Conserv 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/acv.12666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- K. E. Pereira
- Department of Biological Sciences Duquesne University Pittsburgh PA USA
| | - S. K. Woodley
- Department of Biological Sciences Duquesne University Pittsburgh PA USA
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Weiss L, Manzini I, Hassenklöver T. Olfaction across the water-air interface in anuran amphibians. Cell Tissue Res 2021; 383:301-325. [PMID: 33496878 PMCID: PMC7873119 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-020-03377-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Extant anuran amphibians originate from an evolutionary intersection eventually leading to fully terrestrial tetrapods. In many ways, they have to deal with exposure to both terrestrial and aquatic environments: (i) phylogenetically, as derivatives of the first tetrapod group that conquered the terrestrial environment in evolution; (ii) ontogenetically, with a development that includes aquatic and terrestrial stages connected via metamorphic remodeling; and (iii) individually, with common changes in habitat during the life cycle. Our knowledge about the structural organization and function of the amphibian olfactory system and its relevance still lags behind findings on mammals. It is a formidable challenge to reveal underlying general principles of circuity-related, cellular, and molecular properties that are beneficial for an optimized sense of smell in water and air. Recent findings in structural organization coupled with behavioral observations could help to understand the importance of the sense of smell in this evolutionarily important animal group. We describe the structure of the peripheral olfactory organ, the olfactory bulb, and higher olfactory centers on a tissue, cellular, and molecular levels. Differences and similarities between the olfactory systems of anurans and other vertebrates are reviewed. Special emphasis lies on adaptations that are connected to the distinct demands of olfaction in water and air environment. These particular adaptations are discussed in light of evolutionary trends, ontogenetic development, and ecological demands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukas Weiss
- Institute of Animal Physiology, Department of Animal Physiology and Molecular Biomedicine, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Heinrich-Buff-Ring 38, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Ivan Manzini
- Institute of Animal Physiology, Department of Animal Physiology and Molecular Biomedicine, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Heinrich-Buff-Ring 38, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Thomas Hassenklöver
- Institute of Animal Physiology, Department of Animal Physiology and Molecular Biomedicine, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Heinrich-Buff-Ring 38, 35392, Giessen, Germany.
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14
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Różański JJ, Capillo G, Lauriano ER, Aragona M, Kuciel M, Zaccone G, Żuwała KD. Ultrastructural and immunocytochemical studies on the olfactory receptor neurons in the
Ichthyosaura alpestris. ACTA ZOOL-STOCKHOLM 2020. [DOI: 10.1111/azo.12351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Józef J. Różański
- Department of Comparative Anatomy Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Researches Faculty of Biology Jagiellonian University in Krakow Kraków Poland
| | - Gioele Capillo
- Department of Veterinary Sciences Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata University of Messina Messina Italy
| | - Eugenia R. Lauriano
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences University of Messina Messina Italy
| | - Marialuisa Aragona
- Department of Veterinary Sciences Polo Universitario dell'Annunziata University of Messina Messina Italy
| | - Michał Kuciel
- Department of Toxicology and Environmental Disease Faculty of Medicine Poison Information Centre Jagiellonian University Cracow Poland
| | - Giacomo Zaccone
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging Polo Universitario dell’Annunziata University of Messina Messina Italy
| | - Krystyna D. Żuwała
- Department of Comparative Anatomy Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Researches Faculty of Biology Jagiellonian University in Krakow Kraków Poland
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15
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Matsui T, Komamoto K, Igarashi H, Kurohmaru M. Species-specific and heterogeneous distribution of sialoglycoconjugates in the primary olfactory center of three species of Asian salamanders (Cynops). Tissue Cell 2020; 67:101428. [PMID: 32858481 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2020.101428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Revised: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Sialic acids (Sia) are terminal components of glycoconjugates that are involved in molecular and cellular interactions in the olfactory system. Diverse glycoconjugates are expressed in the salamander olfactory projection; however, their sialylation and the linkage of Sia to underlying sugars remain largely unknown. The present study aimed to determine the expression of Sia linked to galactose (Gal)-N-acetylglucosamine and N-acetylgalactosamine (GalNAc) in the olfactory bulbs of three species of salamanders using lectin binding. Abundant distribution of sialoglycoconjugates was observed in the salamander olfactory bulb by lectins, Sambucus sieboldiana (SSA) and Maackia amurensis (MAM). Moreover, SSA and MAM showed heterogeneous bindings in the primary olfactory projection of Cynops pyrrhogaster and C. orientalis. Lectin reactivities obviously decreased in all layers of the olfactory bulb after sialidase digestion, indicating selective binding to sialoglycoconjugates. Next, we examined the expression of the subterminal sugar residues, Gal and GalNAc, after terminal Sia removal. Desialylation in the olfactory bulb enhanced the reactivity of Jacalin and Vicia villosa (VVA) lectins that recognize Gal and GalNAc respectively. Together with the binding of SSA and MAM, Sia linked to Gal and GalNAc might be a major component of sialoglycoconjugates in the salamander olfactory projection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshiyasu Matsui
- Laboratory of Veterinary Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Okayama University of Science, Imabari, Ehime, Japan.
| | - Kazuyuki Komamoto
- Laboratory of Veterinary Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Okayama University of Science, Imabari, Ehime, Japan
| | - Hitomi Igarashi
- Laboratory of Veterinary Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Okayama University of Science, Imabari, Ehime, Japan
| | - Masamichi Kurohmaru
- Laboratory of Veterinary Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Okayama University of Science, Imabari, Ehime, Japan
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16
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Starnberger I, Maier PM, Hödl W, Preininger D. Multimodal Signal Testing Reveals Gestural Tapping Behavior in Spotted Reed Frogs. HERPETOLOGICA 2018; 74:127-134. [PMID: 30078848 DOI: 10.1655/herpetologica-d-17-00053.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
In the majority of anuran species, acoustic signals are the dominant mode of inter- and intrasexual communication. Male calls are always accompanied by the movement of a more or less conspicuous vocal sac-a potential visual cue. Reed frogs possess a striking vocal sac with a colorful patch of gland tissue clearly visible once the vocal sac is inflated during acoustic signaling. To investigate the visual signal function of vocal sac and gular gland, we presented male Spotted Reed Frogs (Hyperolius puncticulatus) with unimodal and multimodal signal playbacks of conspecific rivals in their natural habitat and recorded their behavioral responses. We found no difference in receiver response to unimodal advertisement call stimuli and to multimodal stimulus presentations of calls combined with visual signals of an artificial vocal sac with or without a gular patch, moving synchronously or asynchronously with the call playback. The inflations of a vocal sac with a colorful gular patch did not alter receiver response and neither increase nor decrease signal salience during male-male communication. Interestingly, males frequently displayed a novel hind and front foot-tapping behavior in response to all playbacks. Comparison of male responses to advertisement and aggressive call playbacks showed that Spotted Reed Frogs approached the sound source less during aggressive call presentations. Tapping behavior was not influenced by either call playback. We suggest that the gestural tapping behavior might act as vibrational signal and discuss its potential signal function in male contests and courtship for females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris Starnberger
- Department of Integrative Zoology, University of Vienna, Althanstraße 14, 1090 Wien, Austria
| | - Philipp Martin Maier
- Department of Integrative Zoology, University of Vienna, Althanstraße 14, 1090 Wien, Austria
| | - Walter Hödl
- Department of Integrative Zoology, University of Vienna, Althanstraße 14, 1090 Wien, Austria
| | - Doris Preininger
- Department of Integrative Zoology, University of Vienna, Althanstraße 14, 1090 Wien, Austria
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17
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Rollins RE, Staub NL. The Presence of Caudal Courtship-Like Glands in Male and Female Ouachita Dusky Salamanders (Desmognathus brimleyorum). HERPETOLOGICA 2017. [DOI: 10.1655/herpetologica-d-17-00003.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Nancy L. Staub
- Department of Biology, Gonzaga University, Spokane, WA 99258, USA
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18
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Treer D, Maex M, Van Bocxlaer I, Proost P, Bossuyt F. Divergence of species-specific protein sex pheromone blends in two related, nonhybridizing newts (Salamandridae). Mol Ecol 2017; 27:508-519. [PMID: 29087032 DOI: 10.1111/mec.14398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2017] [Revised: 08/17/2017] [Accepted: 08/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
In animals that use chemical communication during courtship and reproduction, speciation is often associated with divergence of their sex pheromones. In multicomponent pheromone systems, divergence can be obtained either by adding or deleting components, or by altering the relative contribution of individual components to the mixture. Protein pheromone systems can additionally evolve by amino acid sequence divergence to produce pheromones with a species-specific effect. The sodefrin precursor-like factor (SPF) pheromone system, a blend of proteins that essentially enhances receptivity in salamanders, has had a long and dynamic evolution of gene duplications, but the mechanisms that govern interspecific divergence and the role they play in reproductive isolation remain elusive. Here, we use transcriptomics and proteomics to characterize the SPF protein repertoire of the alpine newt (Ichthyosaura alpestris), and compare it to the previously identified repertoire of SPF proteins of the palmate newt (Lissotriton helveticus), a related but nonhybridizing species. Subsequent phylogenetic analyses indicate that, despite the availability of multiple SPF gene copies, both species predominantly express the same subset of orthologs. Our study demonstrates that species specificity in the SPF protein pheromone system can be established by gradual sequence divergence of the same set of proteins alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dag Treer
- Amphibian Evolution Lab, Biology Department, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Margo Maex
- Amphibian Evolution Lab, Biology Department, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ines Van Bocxlaer
- Amphibian Evolution Lab, Biology Department, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Paul Proost
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Rega Institute, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven (K.U. Leuven), Leuven, Belgium
| | - Franky Bossuyt
- Amphibian Evolution Lab, Biology Department, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
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19
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Wilburn DB, Arnold SJ, Houck LD, Feldhoff PW, Feldhoff RC. Gene Duplication, Co-option, Structural Evolution, and Phenotypic Tango in the Courtship Pheromones of Plethodontid Salamanders. HERPETOLOGICA 2017. [DOI: 10.1655/herpetologica-d-16-00082.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Damien B. Wilburn
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Stevan J. Arnold
- Department of Integrative Biology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
| | - Lynne D. Houck
- Department of Integrative Biology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
| | - Pamela W. Feldhoff
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40292, USA
| | - Richard C. Feldhoff
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40292, USA
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20
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Nowack C, Peram PS, Wenzel S, Rakotoarison A, Glaw F, Poth D, Schulz S, Vences M. Volatile compound secretion coincides with modifications of the olfactory organ in mantellid frogs. J Zool (1987) 2017. [DOI: 10.1111/jzo.12467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C. Nowack
- Department of Cell Biology; University of Kassel; Kassel Germany
| | - P. S. Peram
- Institute of Organic Chemistry; Technical University of Braunschweig; Braunschweig Germany
| | - S. Wenzel
- Department of Cell Biology; University of Kassel; Kassel Germany
| | - A. Rakotoarison
- Zoological Institute; Technical University of Braunschweig; Braunschweig Germany
| | - F. Glaw
- Zoologische Staatssammlung München (ZSM-SNSB); München Germany
| | - D. Poth
- Institute of Organic Chemistry; Technical University of Braunschweig; Braunschweig Germany
| | - S. Schulz
- Institute of Organic Chemistry; Technical University of Braunschweig; Braunschweig Germany
| | - M. Vences
- Zoological Institute; Technical University of Braunschweig; Braunschweig Germany
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21
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Wilburn DB, Doty KA, Chouinard AJ, Eddy SL, Woodley SK, Houck LD, Feldhoff RC. Olfactory effects of a hypervariable multicomponent pheromone in the red-legged salamander, Plethodon shermani. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0174370. [PMID: 28358844 PMCID: PMC5373537 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0174370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2016] [Accepted: 03/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemical communication via chemosensory signaling is an essential process for promoting and modifying reproductive behavior in many species. During courtship in plethodontid salamanders, males deliver a mixture of non-volatile proteinaceous pheromones that activate chemosensory neurons in the vomeronasal epithelium (VNE) and increase female receptivity. One component of this mixture, Plethodontid Modulating Factor (PMF), is a hypervariable pheromone expressed as more than 30 unique isoforms that differ between individual males-likely driven by co-evolution with female receptors to promote gene duplication and positive selection of the PMF gene complex. Courtship trials with females receiving different PMF isoform mixtures had variable effects on female mating receptivity, with only the most complex mixtures increasing receptivity, such that we believe that sufficient isoform diversity allows males to improve their reproductive success with any female in the mating population. The aim of this study was to test the effects of isoform variability on VNE neuron activation using the agmatine uptake assay. All isoform mixtures activated a similar number of neurons (>200% over background) except for a single purified PMF isoform (+17%). These data further support the hypothesis that PMF isoforms act synergistically in order to regulate female receptivity, and different putative mechanisms are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damien B. Wilburn
- Dept of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, United States of America
- Dept of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Kari A. Doty
- Dept of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, United States of America
| | - Adam J. Chouinard
- Dept of Zoology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, United States of America
| | - Sarah L. Eddy
- Dept of Zoology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, United States of America
| | - Sarah K. Woodley
- Dept of Biological Sciences, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Lynne D. Houck
- Dept of Zoology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, United States of America
| | - Richard C. Feldhoff
- Dept of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, United States of America
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22
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Silva L, Antunes A. Vomeronasal Receptors in Vertebrates and the Evolution of Pheromone Detection. Annu Rev Anim Biosci 2017; 5:353-370. [DOI: 10.1146/annurev-animal-022516-022801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Liliana Silva
- CIIMAR/CIMAR, Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, 4050-208 Porto, Portugal
| | - Agostinho Antunes
- CIIMAR/CIMAR, Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, 4050-208 Porto, Portugal
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
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23
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Kaczmarek P, Hermyt M, Rupik W. Embryology of the VNO and associated structures in the grass snake Natrix natrix (Squamata: Naticinae): a 3D perspective. Front Zool 2017; 14:1. [PMID: 28101121 PMCID: PMC5237294 DOI: 10.1186/s12983-017-0188-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2016] [Accepted: 01/02/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Snakes are considered to be vomerolfaction specialists. They are members of one of the most diverse groups of vertebrates, Squamata. The vomeronasal organ and the associated structures (such as the lacrimal duct, choanal groove, lamina transversalis anterior and cupola Jacobsoni) of adult lizards and snakes have received much anatomical, histological, physiological and behavioural attention. However, only limited embryological investigation into these structures, constrained to some anatomical or cellular studies and brief surveys, has been carried out thus far. The purpose of this study was, first, to examine the embryonic development of the vomeronasal organ and the associated structures in the grass snake (Natrix natrix), using three-dimensional reconstructions based on histological studies, and, second, to compare the obtained results with those presented in known publications on other snakes and lizards. RESULTS Five major developmental processes were taken into consideration in this study: separation of the vomeronasal organ from the nasal cavity and its specialization, development of the mushroom body, formation of the lacrimal duct, development of the cupola Jacobsoni and its relation to the vomeronasal nerve, and specialization of the sensory epithelium. Our visualizations showed the VNO in relation to the nasal cavity, choanal groove, lacrimal duct and cupola Jacobsoni at different embryonic stages. We confirmed that the choanal groove disappears gradually, which indicates that this structure is absent in adult grass snakes. On our histological sections, we observed a gradual growth in the height of the columns of the vomeronasal sensory epithelium and widening of the spaces between them. CONCLUSIONS The main ophidian taxa (Scolecophidia, Henophidia and Caenophidia), just like other squamate clades, seem to be evolutionarily conservative at some levels with respect to the VNO and associated structures morphology. Thus, it was possible to homologize certain embryonic levels of the anatomical and histological complexity, observed in the grass snake, with adult conditions of certain groups of Squamata. This may reflect evolutionary shift in Squamata from visually oriented predators to vomerolfaction specialists. Our descriptions offer material useful for future comparative studies of Squamata, both at their anatomical and histological levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paweł Kaczmarek
- Department of Animal Histology and Embryology, University of Silesia, 9 Bankowa Str, 40-007 Katowice, Poland
| | - Mateusz Hermyt
- Department of Animal Histology and Embryology, University of Silesia, 9 Bankowa Str, 40-007 Katowice, Poland
| | - Weronika Rupik
- Department of Animal Histology and Embryology, University of Silesia, 9 Bankowa Str, 40-007 Katowice, Poland
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24
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Whitear AK, Wang X, Catling P, McLennan DA, Davy CM. The scent of a hatchling: intra-species variation in the use of chemosensory cues by neonate freshwater turtles. Biol J Linn Soc Lond 2016. [DOI: 10.1111/bij.12855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Amelia K. Whitear
- Wildlife Preservation Canada; 5420 Highway 6 North Guelph ON N1H 6J2 Canada
| | - Xiaotian Wang
- Wildlife Preservation Canada; 5420 Highway 6 North Guelph ON N1H 6J2 Canada
| | - Pauline Catling
- Wildlife Preservation Canada; 5420 Highway 6 North Guelph ON N1H 6J2 Canada
| | - Deborah A. McLennan
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology; University of Toronto; 25 Willcocks Street Toronto ON M5S 3B2 Canada
| | - Christina M. Davy
- Wildlife Preservation Canada; 5420 Highway 6 North Guelph ON N1H 6J2 Canada
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25
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Proppe DS, McMillan N, Congdon JV, Sturdy CB. Mitigating road impacts on animals through learning principles. Anim Cogn 2016; 20:19-31. [PMID: 27154629 DOI: 10.1007/s10071-016-0989-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2015] [Revised: 03/17/2016] [Accepted: 04/21/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Roads are a nearly ubiquitous feature of the developed world, but their presence does not come without consequences. Many mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians suffer high rates of mortality through collision with motor vehicles, while other species treat roads as barriers that reduce gene flow between populations. Road effects extend beyond the pavement, where traffic noise is altering communities of songbirds, insects, and some mammals. Traditional methods of mitigation along roads include the creation of quieter pavement and tires and the construction of physical barriers to reduce sound transmission and movement. While effective, these forms of mitigation are costly and time-consuming. One alternative is the use of learning principles to create or extinguish aversive behaviors in animals living near roads. Classical and operant conditioning are well-documented techniques for altering behavior in response to novel cues and signals. Behavioral ecologists have used conditioning techniques to mitigate human-wildlife conflict challenges, alter predator-prey interactions, and facilitate reintroduction efforts. Yet, these principles have rarely been applied in the context of roads. We suggest that the field of road ecology is ripe with opportunity for experimentation with learning principles. We present tangible ways that learning techniques could be utilized to mitigate negative roadside behaviors, address the importance of evaluating fitness within these contexts, and evaluate the longevity of learned behaviors. This review serves as an invitation for empirical studies that test the effectiveness of learning paradigms as a mitigation tool in the context of roads.
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Affiliation(s)
- D S Proppe
- Department of Biology, Calvin College, 3201 Burton St SE, Grand Rapids, MI, 49546, USA.
| | - N McMillan
- Department of Psychology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - J V Congdon
- Department of Psychology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - C B Sturdy
- Department of Psychology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.,Neuroscience and Mental Health Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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26
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Budzik KA, Żuwała K, Kerney R. Tongue and taste organ development in the ontogeny of direct-developing salamanderPlethodon cinereus(Lissamphibia: Plethodontidae). J Morphol 2016; 277:906-15. [DOI: 10.1002/jmor.20544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2016] [Revised: 03/14/2016] [Accepted: 03/25/2016] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Karolina A. Budzik
- Department of Comparative Anatomy; Jagiellonian University; Kraków Poland
| | - Krystyna Żuwała
- Department of Comparative Anatomy; Jagiellonian University; Kraków Poland
| | - Ryan Kerney
- Department of Biology; Gettysburg College; Gettysburg Pennsylvania 17325
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27
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28
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Janssenswillen S, Bossuyt F. Male Courtship Pheromones Induce Cloacal Gaping in Female Newts (Salamandridae). PLoS One 2016; 11:e0144985. [PMID: 26771882 PMCID: PMC4714853 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0144985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2015] [Accepted: 11/26/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Pheromones are an important component of sexual communication in courting salamanders, but the number of species in which their use has been demonstrated with behavioral evidence remains limited. Here we developed a behavioral assay for demonstrating courtship pheromone use in the aquatically courting Iberian ribbed newt Pleurodeles waltl. By performing an in-depth study of the courtship behavior, we show that females invariably open their cloaca (cloacal gaping) before engaging in pinwheel behavior, the circling movement that is the prelude to spermatophore uptake. In contrast, cloacal gaping was not observed in failed courtships, where females escaped or displayed thanatosis. Since gaping mainly occurred during male amplexus and cloacal imposition, which is the obvious period of pheromone transfer, we next investigated whether male courtship water (i.e., water holding courtship pheromones) alone was able to induce this reaction in females. These tests showed that courtship water induced cloacal gaping significantly more than water, even in the absence of a male. Cloacal gaping thus provides a simple and robust test for demonstrating courtship pheromone use in the Iberian ribbed newt. Since opening the cloaca is an essential prerequisite for spermatophore pick-up in all internally fertilizing salamanders, we hypothesize that variations on this assay will also be useful in several other species.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Franky Bossuyt
- Amphibian Evolution Lab, Biology Department, Vrije Universiteit, Brussel, Belgium
- * E-mail:
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29
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Van Bocxlaer I, Treer D, Maex M, Vandebergh W, Janssenswillen S, Stegen G, Kok P, Willaert B, Matthijs S, Martens E, Mortier A, de Greve H, Proost P, Bossuyt F. Side-by-side secretion of Late Palaeozoic diverged courtship pheromones in an aquatic salamander. Proc Biol Sci 2015; 282:20142960. [PMID: 25694622 PMCID: PMC4345460 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2014.2960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Males of the advanced salamanders (Salamandroidea) attain internal fertilization without a copulatory organ by depositing a spermatophore on the substrate in the environment, which females subsequently take up with their cloaca. The aquatically reproducing modern Eurasian newts (Salamandridae) have taken this to extremes, because most species do not display close physical contact during courtship, but instead largely rely on females following the male track at spermatophore deposition. Although pheromones have been widely assumed to represent an important aspect of male courtship, molecules able to induce the female following behaviour that is the prelude for successful insemination have not yet been identified. Here, we show that uncleaved sodefrin precursor-like factor (SPF) protein pheromones are sufficient to elicit such behaviour in female palmate newts (Lissotriton helveticus). Combined transcriptomic and proteomic evidence shows that males simultaneously tail-fan multiple ca 20 kDa glycosylated SPF proteins during courtship. Notably, molecular dating estimates show that the diversification of these proteins already started in the late Palaeozoic, about 300 million years ago. Our study thus not only extends the use of uncleaved SPF proteins outside terrestrially reproducing plethodontid salamanders, but also reveals one of the oldest vertebrate pheromone systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ines Van Bocxlaer
- Amphibian Evolution Laboratory, Biology Department, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Dag Treer
- Amphibian Evolution Laboratory, Biology Department, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Margo Maex
- Amphibian Evolution Laboratory, Biology Department, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Wim Vandebergh
- Amphibian Evolution Laboratory, Biology Department, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sunita Janssenswillen
- Amphibian Evolution Laboratory, Biology Department, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Gwij Stegen
- Amphibian Evolution Laboratory, Biology Department, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Philippe Kok
- Amphibian Evolution Laboratory, Biology Department, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Bert Willaert
- Amphibian Evolution Laboratory, Biology Department, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Severine Matthijs
- Amphibian Evolution Laboratory, Biology Department, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Erik Martens
- Laboratory of Immunobiology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Rega Institute, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven (K.U. Leuven), Minderbroedersstraat 10-Box 1030, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Anneleen Mortier
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Rega Institute, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven (K.U. Leuven), Minderbroedersstraat 10-Box 1030, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Henri de Greve
- Structural and Molecular Microbiology, Structural Biology Research Centre, VIB, Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Brussels, Belgium Structural Biology Brussels, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Paul Proost
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Rega Institute, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven (K.U. Leuven), Minderbroedersstraat 10-Box 1030, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Franky Bossuyt
- Amphibian Evolution Laboratory, Biology Department, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
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Abstract
A wide variety of organisms communicate via the chemical channel using small molecules. A structural feature quite often found is the lactone motif. In the present paper, the current knowledge on such lactones will be described, concentrating on the structure, chemistry, function, biosynthesis and synthesis of these compounds. Lactone semiochemicals from insects, vertebrates and bacteria, which this article will focus on, are particularly well investigated. In addition, some ideas on the advantageous use of lactones as volatile signals, which promoted their evolutionary development, will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Schulz
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Technische Universität Braunschweig, 38106 Braunschweig, Germany.
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31
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Wilburn DB, Swanson WJ. From molecules to mating: Rapid evolution and biochemical studies of reproductive proteins. J Proteomics 2015; 135:12-25. [PMID: 26074353 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2015.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2015] [Revised: 06/09/2015] [Accepted: 06/10/2015] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Sexual reproduction and the exchange of genetic information are essential biological processes for species across all branches of the tree of life. Over the last four decades, biochemists have continued to identify many of the factors that facilitate reproduction, but the molecular mechanisms that mediate this process continue to elude us. However, a recurring observation in this research has been the rapid evolution of reproductive proteins. In animals, the competing interests of males and females often result in arms race dynamics between pairs of interacting proteins. This phenomenon has been observed in all stages of reproduction, including pheromones, seminal fluid components, and gamete recognition proteins. In this article, we review how the integration of evolutionary theory with biochemical experiments can be used to study interacting reproductive proteins. Examples are included from both model and non-model organisms, and recent studies are highlighted for their use of state-of-the-art genomic and proteomic techniques. SIGNIFICANCE Despite decades of research, our understanding of the molecular mechanisms that mediate fertilization remain poorly characterized. To date, molecular evolutionary studies on both model and non-model organisms have provided some of the best inferences to elucidating the molecular underpinnings of animal reproduction. This review article details how biochemical and evolutionary experiments have jointly enhanced the field for 40 years, and how recent work using high-throughput genomic and proteomic techniques have shed additional insights into this crucial biological process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damien B Wilburn
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, United States.
| | - Willie J Swanson
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, United States
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32
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Pizzatto L, Stockwell M, Clulow S, Clulow J, Mahony M. Finding a place to live: conspecific attraction affects habitat selection in juvenile green and golden bell frogs. Acta Ethol 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s10211-015-0218-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Woodley S. Chemosignals, hormones, and amphibian reproduction. Horm Behav 2015; 68:3-13. [PMID: 24945995 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2014.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2014] [Revised: 05/24/2014] [Accepted: 06/09/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
This article is part of a Special Issue "Chemosignals and Reproduction". Amphibians are often thought of as relatively simple animals especially when compared to mammals. Yet the chemosignaling systems used by amphibians are varied and complex. Amphibian chemosignals are particularly important in reproduction, in both aquatic and terrestrial environments. Chemosignaling is most evident in salamanders and newts, but increasing evidence indicates that chemical communication facilitates reproduction in frogs and toads as well. Reproductive hormones shape the production, dissemination, detection, and responsiveness to chemosignals. A large variety of chemosignals have been identified, ranging from simple, invariant chemosignals to complex, variable blends of chemosignals. Although some chemosignals elicit straightforward responses, others have relatively subtle effects. Review of amphibian chemosignaling reveals a number of issues to be resolved, including: 1) the significance of the complex, individually variable blends of courtship chemosignals found in some salamanders, 2) the behavioral and/or physiological functions of chemosignals found in anuran "breeding glands", 3) the ligands for amphibian V2Rs, especially V2Rs expressed in the main olfactory epithelium, and 4) the mechanism whereby transdermal delivery of chemosignals influences behavior. To date, only a handful of the more than 7000 species of amphibians has been examined. Further study of amphibians should provide additional insight to the role of chemosignals in reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Woodley
- Department of Biological Sciences, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA 15282, United States.
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The anuran vocal sac: a tool for multimodal signalling. Anim Behav 2014; 97:281-288. [PMID: 25389375 PMCID: PMC4222773 DOI: 10.1016/j.anbehav.2014.07.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2014] [Revised: 05/16/2014] [Accepted: 07/25/2014] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Although in anurans the predominant mode of intra- and intersexual communication is vocalization, modalities used in addition to or instead of acoustic signals range from seismic and visual to chemical. In some cases, signals of more than one modality are produced through or by the anuran vocal sac. However, its role beyond acoustics has been neglected for some time and nonacoustic cues such as vocal sac movement have traditionally been seen as an epiphenomenon of sound production. The diversity in vocal sac coloration and shape found in different species is striking and recently its visual properties have been given a more important role in signalling. Chemosignals seem to be the dominant communication mode in newts, salamanders and caecilians and certainly play a role in the aquatic life phase of anurans, but airborne chemical signalling has received less attention. There is, however, increasing evidence that at least some terrestrial anuran species integrate acoustic, visual and chemical cues in species recognition and mate choice and a few secondarily mute anuran species seem to fully rely on volatile chemical cues produced in glands on the vocal sac. Within vertebrates, frogs in particular are suitable organisms for investigating multimodal communication by means of experiments, since they are tolerant of disturbance by observers and can be easily manipulated under natural conditions. Thus, the anuran vocal sac might be of great interest not only to herpetologists, but also to behavioural biologists studying communication systems. Our view of anuran communication has changed drastically during the last few decades. Anurans use diverse communication strategies often directly related to the vocal sac. Distinctive vocal sac shapes, sizes and colours suggest functional diversity. Evidence increases that the vocal sac also plays a role in chemical signalling. The anuran vocal sac may be of great interest for studies on communication systems.
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Proteomic analyses of courtship pheromones in the redback salamander, Plethodon cinereus. J Chem Ecol 2014; 40:928-39. [PMID: 25179396 DOI: 10.1007/s10886-014-0489-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2014] [Revised: 07/07/2014] [Accepted: 08/06/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The evolutionary success of plethodontid salamanders for ~100 MY is due partly to the use of courtship pheromones that regulate female receptivity. In ~90 % of plethodontid species, males deliver pheromones by "scratching" a female's dorsum, where pheromones diffuse transdermally into the bloodstream. However, in a single clade, representing ~10 % of Plethodon spp., males apply pheromones to the female's nares for olfactory delivery. Molecular studies have identified three major pheromone families: Plethodontid Receptivity Factor (PRF), Plethodontid Modulating Factor (PMF), and Sodefrin Precursor-like Factor (SPF). SPF and PMF genes are relatively ancient and found in all plethodontid species; however, PRF is found exclusively in the genus Plethodon - which includes species with transdermal, olfactory, and intermediate delivery behaviors. While previous proteomic analyses suggested PRF and PMF are dominant in slapping species and SPF is dominant in non-Plethodon scratching species, it was unclear how protein expression of different pheromone components may vary across delivery modes within Plethodon. Therefore, the aim of this study was to proteomically characterize the pheromones of a key scratching species in this evolutionary transition, Plethodon cinereus. Using mass spectrometry-based techniques, our data support the functional replacement of SPF by PRF in Plethodon spp. and an increase in PMF gene duplication events in both lineage-dependent and delivery-dependent manners. Novel glycosylation was observed on P. cinereus PRFs, which may modulate the metabolism and/or mechanism of action for PRF in scratching species. Cumulatively, these molecular data suggest that the replacement of pheromone components (e.g., SPF by PRF) preceded the evolutionary transition of the functional complex from transdermal to olfactory delivery.
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Starnberger I, Preininger D, Hödl W. From uni- to multimodality: towards an integrative view on anuran communication. J Comp Physiol A Neuroethol Sens Neural Behav Physiol 2014; 200:777-87. [PMID: 24973893 PMCID: PMC4138437 DOI: 10.1007/s00359-014-0923-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2014] [Revised: 06/06/2014] [Accepted: 06/08/2014] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Undeniably, acoustic signals are the predominant mode of communication in frogs and toads. Acoustically active species are found throughout the vast diversity of anuran families. However, additional or alternative signal modalities have gained increasing attention. In several anurans, seismic, visual and chemical communications have convergently evolved due to ecological constraints such as noisy environments. The production of a visual cue, like the inevitably moving vocal sac of acoustically advertising males, is emphasized by conspicuously coloured throats. Limb movements accompanied by dynamic displays of bright colours are additional examples of striking visual signals independent of vocalizations. In some multimodal anuran communication systems, the acoustic component acts as an alert signal, which alters the receiver attention to the following visual display. Recent findings of colourful glands on vocal sacs, producing volatile species-specific scent bouquets suggest the possibility of integration of acoustic, visual and chemical cues in species recognition and mate choice. The combination of signal components facilitates a broadened display repertoire in challenging environmental conditions. Thus, the complexity of the communication systems of frogs and toads may have been underestimated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris Starnberger
- Department of Integrative Zoology, University of Vienna, Althanstraße 14, 1090, Vienna, Austria,
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Abstract
Sexual selection based on visual stimuli was recently studied in several amphibian species with permanent or temporary dichromatism. The Alpine newt (Ichthyosaura alpestris) is a Caudate species with prominent sexual dichromatism during the breeding period. We focused on the intersexual differences in the orange, carotenoid-base ventral colouration of this widespread European species. We used an image analysis approach to compare the content of the red colour and saturation of the belly in 80 male and 62 female aquatic adult newts captured during spring migration in two localities in the Czech Republic. Both studied colour parameters of the ventral side of the Alpine newt are connected with sex. Males have significantly higher values of saturation on both localities, but the relationship with red content was not so clear. Individual characteristics (body condition, body length) affect colour variables of males and females similarly. Effect of body condition on colour variables was not demonstrated. Therefore we presume that the pronounced colouration of males is a cue facilitating detection, localisation or interspecies identification, rather than a direct component of male quality as assessed by females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oldřich Kopecký
- Department of Zoology and Fisheries, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague
| | - Jiří Šichtař
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague
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Wyatt T. Introduction to Chemical Signaling in Vertebrates and Invertebrates. Front Neurosci 2014. [DOI: 10.1201/b16511-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
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The genetic architecture of chemosensory cues involved in species recognition: a behavioral approach in the house mouse. Behav Genet 2013; 44:56-67. [PMID: 24158628 DOI: 10.1007/s10519-013-9621-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2013] [Accepted: 10/08/2013] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The genetics of chemical signals is poorly understood. We addressed this issue in two subspecies of mice, Mus musculus musculus and M. m. domesticus, comparing their odor phenotypes with that of their hybrids. Earlier studies indicated that these subspecies could be discriminated on the basis of their urinary odor. We assessed male odor phenotypes from perception of musculus mice acting as olfactometers. Our results point to a complex genetic determinism. Reciprocal F1 hybrids produced a distinct odor phenotype, with shared characteristics distinguishing them from their parents, and stronger similarity to domesticus than to musculus. These results are consistent with implications of genes with partial dominance and a parent of origin effect. Further, similarities between reciprocal F2 allowed us to reject a direct role of the Y-chromosome in shaping the odor phenotype. However we show that the X-chromosome could be involved in explaining domesticus phenotype, while epistasis between genes on the sex chromosomes and the autosomes might influence musculus phenotype.
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Starnberger I, Poth D, Peram PS, Schulz S, Vences M, Knudsen J, Barej MF, Rödel MO, Walzl M, Hödl W. Take time to smell the frogs: vocal sac glands of reed frogs (Anura: Hyperoliidae) contain species-specific chemical cocktails. Biol J Linn Soc Lond 2013; 110. [PMID: 24277973 PMCID: PMC3837199 DOI: 10.1111/bij.12167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Males of all reed frog species (Anura: Hyperoliidae) have a prominent, often colourful, gular patch on their vocal sac, which is particularly conspicuous once the vocal sac is inflated. Although the presence, shape, and form of the gular patch are well-known diagnostic characters for these frogs, its function remains unknown. By integrating biochemical and histological methods, we found strong evidence that the gular patch is a gland producing volatile compounds, which might be emitted while calling. Volatile compounds were confirmed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry in the gular glands in 11 species of the hyperoliid genera Afrixalus, Heterixalus, Hyperolius, and Phlyctimantis. Comparing the gular gland contents of 17 specimens of four sympatric Hyperolius species yielded a large variety of 65 compounds in species-specific combinations. We suggest that reed frogs might use a complex combination of at least acoustic and chemical signals in species recognition and mate choice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris Starnberger
- Department of Integrative Zoology, University of Vienna, Althanstrasse 14, Wien 1090, Austria
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Poth D, Peram PS, Vences M, Schulz S. Macrolides and alcohols as scent gland constituents of the Madagascan frog Mantidactylus femoralis and their intraspecific diversity. JOURNAL OF NATURAL PRODUCTS 2013; 76:1548-1558. [PMID: 24004086 DOI: 10.1021/np400131q] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Acoustic and, to a lesser degree, visual signals are the predominant means of signaling in frogs. Nevertheless, certain lineages such as the mantelline frogs from Madagascar use the chemical communication channel as well. Males possess femoral glands on the hind legs, which recently have been shown to contain volatile compounds used in communication as pheromones. Many mantelline species occur in sympatry, and so far species recognition is regarded to occur mainly by acoustic signals. The analysis of the gland constituents of Mantidactylus femoralis by GC/MS revealed the presence of volatile macrolides and secondary alcohols. The new natural products mantidactolides A (4) and B (6), as well as several methyl carbinols, were identified, and their structures were confirmed by synthesis. The analysis of individuals from different locations of Madagascar revealed the presence of two groups characterized by specific patterns of compounds. While one group contained the alcohols and mantidactolide B, the other showed specific presence of the macrolides phoracantholide I (1) and mantidactolide A (4). Genetic analysis of some individuals showed no congruence between genetic relatedness and gland constituents. Several other individuals from related species had different gland compositions. This suggests that a basic set of biosynthetic machinery might be available to a broader group of related species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis Poth
- Institut für Organische Chemie, Technische Universität Braunschweig , Hagenring 30, 38106 Braunschweig, Germany
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Abellán A, Desfilis E, Medina L. The olfactory amygdala in amniotes: an evo-devo approach. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2013; 296:1317-32. [PMID: 23904411 DOI: 10.1002/ar.22744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2013] [Accepted: 06/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
In tetrapods, the medial amygdala is a forebrain center that integrates olfactory and/or vomeronasal signals with the endocrine and autonomic systems, playing a key role in different social behaviors. The vomeronasal system has undergone important changes during evolution, which may be behind some interspecies differences in chemosensory-mediated social behavior. These evolutionary changes are associated with variations in vomeronasal-recipient brain structures, including the medial amygdala. Herein, we employed an evolutionary developmental biology approach for trying to understand the function and evolution of the medial amygdala. For that purpose, we reviewed published data on fate mapping in mouse, and the expression of orthologous developmental regulatory genes (Nkx2.1, Lhx6, Shh, Tbr1, Lhx9, Lhx5, Otp, and Pax6) in embryos of mouse, chicken, emydid turtles, and a pipid frog. We also analyzed novel data on Lhx9 and Otp in a lacertid lizard. Based on distinct embryonic origin and genetic profile, at least five neuronal subpopulations exist in the medial amygdala of rodents, expressing either Nkx2.1/Lhx6, Shh, Lhx9, Otp/Lhx5, or Pax6. Each neuronal subpopulation appears involved in different functional pathways. For example, Lhx6 cells are specifically activated by sex pheromones and project to preoptic and hypothalamic centers involved in reproduction. Based on data in nonmammals, at least three of these neuronal subtypes might have been present in the medial amygdala of the amniote common ancestor. During mammalian evolution, the downregulation of Nkx2.1 in the alar hypothalamus may have been a driving force for an increment of the Otp/Lhx5 subpopulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Abellán
- Laboratory of Brain Development and Evolution, Department of Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lleida, Institute of Biomedical Research of Lleida, Lleida, Spain
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Treer D, Van Bocxlaer I, Matthijs S, Du Four D, Janssenswillen S, Willaert B, Bossuyt F. Love is blind: indiscriminate female mating responses to male courtship pheromones in newts (Salamandridae). PLoS One 2013; 8:e56538. [PMID: 23457580 PMCID: PMC3574087 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0056538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2012] [Accepted: 01/10/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Internal fertilization without copulation or prolonged physical contact is a rare reproductive mode among vertebrates. In many newts (Salamandridae), the male deposits a spermatophore on the substrate in the water, which the female subsequently takes up with her cloaca. Because such an insemination requires intense coordination of both sexes, male newts have evolved a courtship display, essentially consisting of sending pheromones under water by tail-fanning towards their potential partner. Behavioral experiments until now mostly focused on an attractant function, i.e. showing that olfactory cues are able to bring both sexes together. However, since males start their display only after an initial contact phase, courtship pheromones are expected to have an alternative function. Here we developed a series of intraspecific and interspecific two-female experiments with alpine newt (Ichthyosaura alpestris) and palmate newt (Lissotriton helveticus) females, comparing behavior in male courtship water and control water. We show that male olfactory cues emitted during tail-fanning are pheromones that can induce all typical features of natural female mating behavior. Interestingly, females exposed to male pheromones of their own species show indiscriminate mating responses to conspecific and heterospecific females, indicating that visual cues are subordinate to olfactory cues during courtship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dag Treer
- Amphibian Evolution Lab, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ines Van Bocxlaer
- Amphibian Evolution Lab, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Severine Matthijs
- Amphibian Evolution Lab, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Dimitri Du Four
- Amphibian Evolution Lab, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - Bert Willaert
- Amphibian Evolution Lab, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Franky Bossuyt
- Amphibian Evolution Lab, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- * E-mail:
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Suárez R, García-González D, de Castro F. Mutual influences between the main olfactory and vomeronasal systems in development and evolution. Front Neuroanat 2012; 6:50. [PMID: 23269914 PMCID: PMC3529325 DOI: 10.3389/fnana.2012.00050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2012] [Accepted: 11/26/2012] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The sense of smell plays a crucial role in the sensory world of animals. Two chemosensory systems have been traditionally thought to play-independent roles in mammalian olfaction. According to this, the main olfactory system (MOS) specializes in the detection of environmental odorants, while the vomeronasal system (VNS) senses pheromones and semiochemicals produced by individuals of the same or different species. Although both systems differ in their anatomy and function, recent evidence suggests they act synergistically in the perception of scents. These interactions include similar responses to some ligands, overlap of telencephalic connections and mutual influences in the regulation of olfactory-guided behavior. In the present work, we propose the idea that the relationships between systems observed at the organismic level result from a constant interaction during development and reflects a common history of ecological adaptations in evolution. We review the literature to illustrate examples of developmental and evolutionary processes that evidence these interactions and propose that future research integrating both systems may shed new light on the mechanisms of olfaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Suárez
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, St Lucia Brisbane, QLD, Australia ; Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Chile Santiago, Chile
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Sink or swim: a test of tadpole behavioral responses to predator cues and potential alarm pheromones from skin secretions. J Comp Physiol A Neuroethol Sens Neural Behav Physiol 2012; 198:841-6. [PMID: 22972229 DOI: 10.1007/s00359-012-0750-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2012] [Revised: 08/10/2012] [Accepted: 08/16/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Poth D, Wollenberg KC, Vences M, Schulz S. Volatile amphibian pheromones: macrolides from mantellid frogs from Madagascar. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2012; 51:2187-90. [PMID: 22266641 DOI: 10.1002/anie.201106592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2011] [Revised: 11/18/2011] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Dennis Poth
- Institut für Organische Chemie, Technische Universität Braunschweig, Braunschweig, Germany
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48
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Poth D, Wollenberg KC, Vences M, Schulz S. Flüchtige Pheromone aus Amphibien: Makrolide von Fröschen der Familie Mantellidae aus Madagaskar. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2012. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.201106592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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49
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Hagino-Yamagishi K, Nakazawa H. Involvement of Gα(olf)-expressing neurons in the vomeronasal system of Bufo japonicus. J Comp Neurol 2012; 519:3189-201. [PMID: 21618228 DOI: 10.1002/cne.22671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Most terrestrial vertebrates possess anatomically distinct olfactory organs: the olfactory epithelium (OE) and the vomeronasal organ (VNO). In rodents, olfactory receptors coupled to Gα(olf) are expressed in the OE, whereas vomeronasal receptors type 1 (V1R) and vomeronasal receptors type 2 (V2R), coupled to Gα(i2) and Gα(o) , respectively, are expressed in the VNO. These receptors and G proteins are thought to play important roles in olfactory perception. However, we previously reported that only V2R and Gα(o) expression is detected in the Xenopus laevis VNO. As X. laevis spends its entire life in water, we considered that expression of limited types of chemosensory machinery in the VNO might be due to adaptation of the VNO to aquatic life. Thus, we analyzed the expression of G proteins in the VNO and the accessory olfactory bulb (AOB) of the adult Japanese toad, Bufo japonicus, because this species is well adapted to a terrestrial life. By using immunohistochemical analysis in combination with in situ hybridization and DiI labeling, we found that B. japonicus Gα(olf) and Gα(o) were expressed in the apical and middle-to-basal layer of the vomeronasal neuroepithelium, and that the axons of these Gα(olf) - and Gα(o) -expressing vomeronasal neurons projected to the rostral and caudal accessory olfactory bulb, respectively. These results strongly suggest that both the Gα(olf) - and Gα(o) -mediated signal transduction pathways function in the B. japonicus VNO. The expression of Gα(olf) in the B. japonicus VNO may correlate with the detection of airborne chemical cues and with a terrestrial life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimiko Hagino-Yamagishi
- Integrated Neuroscience Research Project, The Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo 156-8506, Japan.
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50
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Cummins SF, Bowie JH. Pheromones, attractants and other chemical cues of aquatic organisms and amphibians. Nat Prod Rep 2012; 29:642-58. [DOI: 10.1039/c2np00102k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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