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Cubillos VM, Salas-Yanquin LP, Mardones-Toledo DA, Ramírez-Kuschel EF, Paredes-Molina FJ, Büchner-Miranda JA, Chaparro OR. Location also matters: The oxidative response of the intertidal purple mussel Perumytilus purpuratus during tidal cycle. MARINE ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 199:106562. [PMID: 38870558 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2024.106562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
For sessile intertidal organisms, periods of low tide impose both cellular and physiological challenges that can determine bathymetric distribution. To understand how intertidal location influences the cellular response of the bivalve Perumytilus purpuratus during the tidal cycle (immersion-emersion-immersion), specimens from the upper intertidal (UI) and lower intertidal (LI) of bathymetric distribution were sampled every 2 h over a 10-h period during a summer tidal cycle. Parallelly, organisms from the UI and LI were reciprocally transplanted and sampled throughout the same tidal cycle. Levels of oxidative damage (lipid peroxidation and protein carbonyls) as well as total antioxidant capacity and total carotenoids were evaluated as cellular responses to variations in environmental conditions throughout the tidal cycle. The results indicate that both the location in the intertidal zone (UI/LI), the level of aerial exposure, and the interaction of both factors are determinants of oxidative levels and total antioxidant capacity of P. purpuratus. Although oxidative damage levels are triggered during the low tide period (aerial exposure), it is the UI specimens that induce higher levels of lipid peroxidation compared to those from the LI, which is consistent with the elevated levels of total antioxidant capacity. On the other hand, organisms from the LI transplanted to the UI increase the levels of lipid peroxidation but not the levels of protein carbonyls, a situation that is also reflected in higher levels of antioxidant response and total carotenoids than those from the UI transplanted to the LI. The bathymetric distribution of P. purpuratus in the intertidal zone implies differentiated responses between organisms of the lower and upper limits, influenced by their life history. A high phenotypic plasticity allows this mussel to adjust its metabolism to respond to abrupt changes in the surrounding environmental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- V M Cubillos
- Instituto de Ciencias Marinas y Limnológicas, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile.
| | - L P Salas-Yanquin
- Instituto de Ciencias Marinas y Limnológicas, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - D A Mardones-Toledo
- Instituto de Ciencias Marinas y Limnológicas, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - E F Ramírez-Kuschel
- Instituto de Ciencias Marinas y Limnológicas, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - F J Paredes-Molina
- Instituto de Ciencias Marinas y Limnológicas, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - J A Büchner-Miranda
- Instituto de Ciencias Marinas y Limnológicas, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - O R Chaparro
- Instituto de Ciencias Marinas y Limnológicas, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
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Feng W, Zhao Z, Wang J, Han T. Nutrient Composition of Ovary, Hepatopancreas and Muscle Tissues in Relation to Ovarian Development Stage of Female Swimming Crab, Portunus trituberculatus. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:3220. [PMID: 37893944 PMCID: PMC10603639 DOI: 10.3390/ani13203220] [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: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The swimming crab Portunus trituberculatus is one of the most important economic species in China and its mature ovary often determines its commercial value and production. Although the ovary maturation of crustaceans is generally affected by exogenous nutrition, the specific nutritional needs of ovary maturation of P. trituberculatus are poorly understood. To this end, we collected the P. trituberculatus samples with five ovarian maturation stages and measured their biochemical composition of the ovary, hepatopancreas, and muscle at each ovarian developmental stage. We further analyzed their relation to the ovarian developmental stage of P. trituberculatus by principal components analysis (PCA). We found the levels of branched-chain amino acids, long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFA), and monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) in the ovary and hepatopancreas increased during the ovary maturation process, and also passively correlated with ovarian developmental stage, which highlights the necessity of these specific nutrients for oogenesis and for improving the nutrient quality of crabs. In addition, we found an increasing tendency of carotenoid content and phosphatidylcholine in phospholipid in the ovary from the pre-developmental stage to the proliferative stage, but not in the hepatopancreas and muscle, which highlights the possible involvement of carotenoids during the rapid oocyte development process. Our study may provide valuable information for developing a suitable broodstock diet that promotes the ovarian maturation of adult P. trituberculatus and ensures high-quality larval production.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Tao Han
- Fishery College, Zhejiang Ocean University, 1 Haida South Road Changzhi Island Lincheng New Area, Zhoushan 316022, China; (W.F.); (Z.Z.); (J.W.)
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3
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Knowles S, Dennis M, McElwain A, Leis E, Richard J. Pathology and infectious agents of unionid mussels: A primer for pathologists in disease surveillance and investigation of mortality events. Vet Pathol 2023; 60:510-528. [PMID: 37226493 DOI: 10.1177/03009858231171666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Freshwater mussels are one of the most imperiled groups of organisms in the world, and more than 30 species have gone extinct in the last century. While habitat alteration and destruction have contributed to the declines, the role of disease in mortality events is unclear. In an effort to involve veterinary pathologists in disease surveillance and the investigation of freshwater mussel mortality events, we provide information on the conservation status of unionids, sample collection and processing techniques, and unique and confounding anatomical and physiological differences. We review the published accounts of pathology and infectious agents described in freshwater mussels including neoplasms, viruses, bacteria, fungi, fungal-like agents, ciliated protists, Aspidogastrea, Digenea, Nematoda, Acari, Diptera, and Odonata. Of the identified infectious agents, a single viral disease, Hyriopsis cumingii plague disease, that occurs only in cultured mussels is known to cause high mortality. Parasites including ciliates, trematodes, nematodes, mites, and insects may decrease host fitness, but are not known to cause mortality. Many of the published reports identify infectious agents at the light or ultrastructural microscopy level with no lesion or molecular characterization. Although metagenomic analyses provide sequence information for infectious agents, studies often fail to link the agents to tissue changes at the light or ultrastructural level or confirm their role in disease. Pathologists can bridge this gap between identification of infectious agents and confirmation of disease, participate in disease surveillance to ensure successful propagation programs necessary to restore decimated populations, and investigate mussel mortality events to document pathology and identify causality.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Eric Leis
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Onalaska, WI
| | - Jordan Richard
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Abingdon, VA
- University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
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4
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Zhao H, Han Z, Yang R, Li Z, Zhang J, Li Y, Liu X. Isolation and identification of pigment substances in orange feet of Paphia textile. AQUACULTURE AND FISHERIES 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.aaf.2023.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
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5
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Wan S, Li Q, Yu H, Liu S, Kong L. Transcriptome analysis based on dietary beta-carotene supplement reveals genes potentially involved in carotenoid metabolism in Crassostrea gigas. Gene 2022; 818:146226. [PMID: 35063572 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2022.146226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 12/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Carotenoids are essential micronutrients for animals, and they can only be obtained from the diet for mollusk as well as other animals. In the body, carotenoids undergo processes including absorption, transport, deposition, and metabolic conversion; however, knowledge of the involved genes is still limited. To elucidate the molecular mechanisms of carotenoid processing and identify the related genes in Pacific oyster (Crassostrea gigas), we performed a comparative transcriptome analysis using digestive gland tissues of oysters on a beta-carotene supplemented diet or a normal diet. A total of 718 differentially expressed genes were obtained, including 505 upregulated and 213 downregulated genes in the beta-carotene supplemented group. Function Annotation and enrichment analyses revealed enrichment in genes possibly involved in carotenoid transport and storage (e.g., LOC105342035), carotenoid cleavage (e.g., LOC105341121), retinoid homeostasis (e.g., LOC105339597) and PPAR signaling pathway (e.g., LOC105323212). Notably, down-regulation of mRNA expressions of two apolipoprotein genes (LOC105342035 and LOC105342186) by RNA interference significantly decreased the carotenoid level in the digestive gland, supporting their role in carotenoid transport and storage. Based on these differentially expressed genes, we propose that there may be a negative feedback mechanism regulated by nuclear receptor transcription factors controlling carotenoid oxygenases. Our findings provide useful hints for elucidating the molecular basis of carotenoid metabolism and functions of carotenoid-related genes in the oyster.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sai Wan
- Key Laboratory of Mariculture, Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, 5 Yushan Road, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Qi Li
- Key Laboratory of Mariculture, Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, 5 Yushan Road, Qingdao 266003, China; Laboratory for Marine Fisheries Science and Food Production Processes, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Wenhai Road, Qingdao 266237, China.
| | - Hong Yu
- Key Laboratory of Mariculture, Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, 5 Yushan Road, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Shikai Liu
- Key Laboratory of Mariculture, Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, 5 Yushan Road, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Lingfeng Kong
- Key Laboratory of Mariculture, Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, 5 Yushan Road, Qingdao 266003, China
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Maia LF, De Oliveira VE, Edwards HGM, De Oliveira LFC. The Diversity of Linear Conjugated Polyenes and Colours in Nature: Raman Spectroscopy as a Diagnostic Tool. Chemphyschem 2020; 22:231-249. [PMID: 33225557 DOI: 10.1002/cphc.202000818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2020] [Revised: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
This review is centered on the linear conjugated polyenes, which encompasses chromatic biomolecules, such as carotenoids, polyunsaturated aldehydes and polyolefinic fatty acids. The linear extension of the conjugated double bonds in these molecules is the main feature that determines the spectroscopic properties as light-absorbing. These classes of compounds are responsible for the yellow, orange, red and purple colors which are observed in their parent flora and fauna in nature. Raman spectroscopy has been used as analytical tool for the characterization of these molecules, mainly due to the strong light scattering produced by the delocalized pi electrons in the carbon chain. In addition, conjugated polyenes are one of the main target molecular species for astrobiology, and we also present a brief discussion of the use of Raman spectroscopy as one of the main analytical tools for the detection of polyenes extra-terrestrially.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lenize F Maia
- Núcleo de Espectroscopia e Estrutura Molecular, Departamento de Química, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, Campus Universitário s/n - Martelos, Juiz de Fora-MG, 36033-620, Brazil
| | - Vanessa E De Oliveira
- Departamento de Ciências da Natureza, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Campus Universitário de Rio das Ostras, Rua Recife, Lotes 1-7, Jardim Bela Vista, Rio das Ostras, RJ, 28895-532, Brazil
| | - Howell G M Edwards
- School of Chemistry and Biosciences, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Bradford, West Yorkshire, BD7 1DP, United Kingdom
| | - Luiz Fernando C De Oliveira
- Núcleo de Espectroscopia e Estrutura Molecular, Departamento de Química, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, Campus Universitário s/n - Martelos, Juiz de Fora-MG, 36033-620, Brazil
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7
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Liu H, Zhang H, Cheng D, Tan K, Ye T, Ma H, Li S, Zheng H. Differential responses of a pi-class glutathione S-transferase (CnGSTp) expression and antioxidant status between golden and brown noble scallops under pathogenic stress. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2020; 105:144-151. [PMID: 32652299 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2020.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) play important roles in immunity by protecting organisms against the damage of reactive oxygen species (ROS). In this study, a pi-class GST cDNA sequence was first cloned from noble scallop Chlamys nobilis (named CnGSTp). The full length cDNA of CnGSTp was 922 bp, encoding a cytosolic protein of 202 amino acids residues, with predicted molecular masses of 23.1 kDa. Then an acute Vibrio Parahaemolyticus challenge experiment was conducted by using the Golden and Brown noble scallops with different total carotenoids content (TCC), and CnGSTp expression level, TCC and ROS level was separately determined. The results showed that ROS and CnGSTp expression levels were significantly up-regulate under Vibrio Parahaemolyticus challenge than the control group (P < 0.05). The Golden scallops showed significantly higher CnGSTp expression level and lower ROS level in hemocytes than the Brown ones (P < 0.05). Moreover, there is a significantly positive correlation between TCC and ROS in the Golden scallops. The present results revealed that CnGSTp plays important roles in immune response and carotenoids play assistant roles in antioxidant defense system under pathogenic stress in the noble scallop.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongxing Liu
- Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology of Guangdong Province, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China; Mariculture Research Center for Subtropical Shellfish & Algae of Guangdong Province, Shantou 515063, China; STU-UMT Joint Shellfish Research Laboratory, Shantou University, Shantou 515063, China
| | - Hongkuan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology of Guangdong Province, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China; Mariculture Research Center for Subtropical Shellfish & Algae of Guangdong Province, Shantou 515063, China; STU-UMT Joint Shellfish Research Laboratory, Shantou University, Shantou 515063, China
| | - Dewei Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology of Guangdong Province, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China; Mariculture Research Center for Subtropical Shellfish & Algae of Guangdong Province, Shantou 515063, China; STU-UMT Joint Shellfish Research Laboratory, Shantou University, Shantou 515063, China
| | - Karsoon Tan
- Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology of Guangdong Province, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China; Mariculture Research Center for Subtropical Shellfish & Algae of Guangdong Province, Shantou 515063, China; STU-UMT Joint Shellfish Research Laboratory, Shantou University, Shantou 515063, China
| | - Ting Ye
- Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology of Guangdong Province, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China; Mariculture Research Center for Subtropical Shellfish & Algae of Guangdong Province, Shantou 515063, China; STU-UMT Joint Shellfish Research Laboratory, Shantou University, Shantou 515063, China
| | - Hongyu Ma
- Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology of Guangdong Province, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China; Mariculture Research Center for Subtropical Shellfish & Algae of Guangdong Province, Shantou 515063, China; STU-UMT Joint Shellfish Research Laboratory, Shantou University, Shantou 515063, China
| | - Shengkang Li
- Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology of Guangdong Province, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China; Mariculture Research Center for Subtropical Shellfish & Algae of Guangdong Province, Shantou 515063, China; STU-UMT Joint Shellfish Research Laboratory, Shantou University, Shantou 515063, China
| | - Huaiping Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology of Guangdong Province, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China; Mariculture Research Center for Subtropical Shellfish & Algae of Guangdong Province, Shantou 515063, China; STU-UMT Joint Shellfish Research Laboratory, Shantou University, Shantou 515063, China.
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8
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Ramesh K, Melzner F, Griffith AW, Gobler CJ, Rouger C, Tasdemir D, Nehrke G. In vivo characterization of bivalve larval shells: a confocal Raman microscopy study. J R Soc Interface 2019; 15:rsif.2017.0723. [PMID: 29643222 DOI: 10.1098/rsif.2017.0723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2017] [Accepted: 03/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In vivo confocal Raman microscopy (CRM), polarized light microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) were used to determine if a significant amount of amorphous calcium carbonate (ACC) exists within larval shells of Baltic mytilid mussels (Mytilus edulis-like) and whether the amount of ACC varies during larval development. No evidence for ACC was found from the onset of shell deposition at 21 h post-fertilization (hpf) until 48 hpf. Larval Mytilus shells were crystalline from 21 hpf onwards and exhibited CRM and FTIR peaks characteristic of aragonite. Prior to shell deposition at 21 hpf, no evidence for carbonates was observed through in vivo CRM. We further analysed the composition of larval shells in three other bivalve species, Mercenaria mercenaria, Crassostrea gigas and Crassostrea virginica and observed no evidence for ACC, which is in contrast to previous work on the same species. Our findings indicate that larval bivalve shells are composed of crystalline aragonite and we demonstrate that conflicting results are related to sub-optimal measurements and misinterpretation of CRM spectra. Our results demonstrate that the common perception that ACC generally occurs as a stable and abundant precursor during larval bivalve calcification needs to be critically reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirti Ramesh
- Marine Ecology, GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel, Germany
| | - Frank Melzner
- Marine Ecology, GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel, Germany
| | - Andrew W Griffith
- School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Christopher J Gobler
- School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Caroline Rouger
- Marine Ecology, GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel, Germany
| | - Deniz Tasdemir
- Marine Ecology, GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel, Germany
| | - Gernot Nehrke
- Alfred Wegener Institute for Polar and Marine Research, Am Handelshafen 12, Bremerhaven, Germany
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9
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Dembitsky VM, Levitsky DO, Gloriozova TA, Poroikov VV. Acetylenic Aquatic Anticancer Agents and Related Compounds. Nat Prod Commun 2019. [DOI: 10.1177/1934578x0600100914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Although acetylenes are common as components of terrestrial plants, it is only within the last 30 years that biologically active polyacetylenes having unusual structural features have been reported from aquatic organisms: cyanobacteria, algae, fungi, invertebrates, and other sources. Naturally occurring aquatic acetylenes are of particular interest since many of them display important biological activities and possess antitumor, antibacterial, antimicrobial, antifouling, antifungal, pesticidal, phototoxic, HIV inhibitory, and immuno-suppressive properties. There is no doubt that they are of great interest, especially for the medicinal and/or pharmaceutical industries. This review presents structures and describes cytotoxic and anticancer activities of more than 230 acetylenic metabolites isolated from aquatic organisms. With the computer program PASS some additional biological activities are also predicted, which point toward possible new applications of these compounds. This review emphasizes the role of aquatic acetylenic compounds as an important source of leads for drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valery M Dembitsky
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Natural Products, School of Pharmacy, P.O. Box 12065, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91120, Israel
| | - Dmitri O Levitsky
- CNRS UMR 6204, Biotechnologie, Biocatalyse et Biorégulation, Faculté des Sciences et des Techniques, Université de Nantes, P.O. Box 92208, 44322 Nantes Cedex 3, France
| | - Tatyana A Gloriozova
- Institute of Biomedical Chemistry, Russian Academy of Medical Sciences, Moscow 119121, Russia
| | - Vladimir V Poroikov
- Institute of Biomedical Chemistry, Russian Academy of Medical Sciences, Moscow 119121, Russia
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Lu Y, Zhang H, Cheng D, Liu H, Li S, Ma H, Zheng H. A multi-CRD C-type lectin gene Cnlec-1 enhance the immunity response in noble scallop Chlamys nobilis with higher carotenoids contents through up-regulating under different immunostimulants. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2018; 83:37-44. [PMID: 30195904 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2018.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Revised: 08/24/2018] [Accepted: 09/05/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
C-type lectins have a variety of immunological functions in invertebrates. In order to investigate whether C-type lectin gene and carotenoids do have immune influences on noble scallop Chlamys nobilis under pathogen stress, acute challenges lasting 48 h to Vibrio parahaemolyticus, lipopolysaccharide (LPS), polyinosinic polycytidylic acid (Poly I: C), and PBS were conducted in noble scallop with different carotenoids content. A multi-CRD C-type lectin gene called Cnlec-1 was cloned and its transcripts under different challenges were determined. Full length cDNA of Cnlec-1 is 2267 bp with an open reading frame (ORF) of 1845 bp encoding 614 deduced amino acids, containing four carbohydrate recognition domains (CRD1, CRD2, CRD3 and CRD4). Phylogenetic tree analysis showed that CRDs of Cnlec-1 were clustered with CRDs of shellfish C-type lectins, especially closely related to Chlamys farreri and Argopecten irradians CRDs. Cnlec-1 transcripts were detected in hemocytes, mantle, gonad, kidney, intestines, gill and adductor. Compared with PBS control group, Cnlec-1 transcripts were up-regulated in V. parahaemolyticus, LPS and Poly I: C groups. Furthermore, Cnlec-1 transcript levels of Golden scallops were significantly higher than that of Brown ones at 3-48 h (P < 0.05) in V. parahemolyticus groups, at 24 h in LPS groups and at 12-24 h in Poly I: C groups. These results suggesting that Cnlec-1 is an important immune factor involved in the defense against pathogens in the noble scallop, and carotenoids can enhance the immunity of noble scallop through up-regulating Cnlec-1 to different immunostimulants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeqing Lu
- Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology of Guangdong Province, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China; Mariculture Research Center for Subtropical Shellfish & Algae, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China; STU-UMT Joint Shellfish Research Laboratory, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China
| | - Hongkuan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology of Guangdong Province, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China; Mariculture Research Center for Subtropical Shellfish & Algae, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China; STU-UMT Joint Shellfish Research Laboratory, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China
| | - Dewei Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology of Guangdong Province, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China; Mariculture Research Center for Subtropical Shellfish & Algae, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China; STU-UMT Joint Shellfish Research Laboratory, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China
| | - Hongxing Liu
- Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology of Guangdong Province, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China; Mariculture Research Center for Subtropical Shellfish & Algae, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China; STU-UMT Joint Shellfish Research Laboratory, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China
| | - Shengkang Li
- Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology of Guangdong Province, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China; Mariculture Research Center for Subtropical Shellfish & Algae, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China; STU-UMT Joint Shellfish Research Laboratory, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China
| | - Hongyu Ma
- Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology of Guangdong Province, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China; Mariculture Research Center for Subtropical Shellfish & Algae, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China; STU-UMT Joint Shellfish Research Laboratory, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China
| | - Huaiping Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology of Guangdong Province, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China; Mariculture Research Center for Subtropical Shellfish & Algae, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China; STU-UMT Joint Shellfish Research Laboratory, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China.
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Lei C, Hao R, Zheng Z, Deng Y, Wang Q, Li J. Molecular cloning and characterisation of scavenger receptor class B in pearl oyster Pinctada fuctada martensii. ELECTRON J BIOTECHN 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejbt.2017.08.003] [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] Open
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12
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Kyrychuk GE, Muzyka LV. Вплив концентрації амоній хлориду на вміст каротиноїдних пігментів в організмі Lymnaea stagnalis. BIOSYSTEMS DIVERSITY 2015. [DOI: 10.15421/011522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Вивчено вплив різних концентрацій амоній хлориду (0,5, 2, 5 та 10 ГДК) на вміст β-каротину та ксантофілів у гемолімфі, гепатопанкреасі, мантії та нозі Lymnaea stagnalis (Linnaeus, 1758) (Pulmonata, Lymnaeidae). Досліджено вміст у тканинах (органах) молюсків обговорюваних каротиноїдів за різної експозиції (2, 7, 14 та 21 доба) перебування тварин у токсичному середовищі. Зміни показників мають дозозалежний характер, значно варіюють залежно від тривалості інтоксикації та характеризуються тканинно-органною специфічністю. Допорогові концентрації NH4Cl (0,5 ГДК) за короткострокової експозиції (2 доби) викликають збільшення вмісту β-каротину (в 1,63–1,81 раза) та ксантофілів (в 1,71–1,89 раза) у всіх досліджених органах молюсків. За дії токсиканта, концентрація якого відповідала 2 ГДК, відмічено підвищення вмісту β-каротину в усіх тканинах і органах, а ксантофілів – лише у гемолімфі L. stagnalis. За умов пролонгування інтоксикації до 7 діб посилюється інгібувальний вплив амоній хлориду на метаболізм досліджуваних тварин, що проявляється зменшенням вмісту β-каротину в усьому їх тілі на 23,6–96,0% незалежно від концентрації полютанта. Збільшення концентрації токсиканта до 5–10 ГДК незалежно від тривалості експозиції викликає зниження вмісту β-каротину у гемолімфі (на 39,9–92,6%) та гепатопанкреасі (на 11,2–95,7%) тварин. За експозиції 21 доба у розчинах з амоній хлоридом (0,5 ГДК) зростає вміст β-каротину у тканинах та органах молюсків, а в міру збільшення токсичності середовища (2–10 ГДК) зафіксовано зменшення вмісту каротиноїдних пігментів в усіх досліджених тканинах та органах L. stagnalis: β-каротину на 52,1–93,5%, ксантофілів на 29,9–91,6%.
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Singh D, Gupta A, Wilkens SL, Mathur AS, Tuli DK, Barrow CJ, Puri M. Understanding response surface optimisation to the modeling of Astaxanthin extraction from a novel strain Thraustochytrium sp. S7. ALGAL RES 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.algal.2015.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Kutuzov NP, Brazhe AR, Maksimov GV, Dracheva OE, Lyaskovskiy VL, Bulygin FV, Rubin AB. Orientational ordering of carotenoids in myelin membranes resolved by polarized Raman microspectroscopy. Biophys J 2015; 107:891-900. [PMID: 25140424 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2014.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2014] [Revised: 06/07/2014] [Accepted: 07/01/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Abstract
We study orientational ordering of membrane compounds in the myelinated nerve fiber by means of polarized Raman microspectroscopy. The theory of orientational distribution functions was adapted to live-cell measurements. The obtained orientational distribution functions of carotenoids and lipid acyl chain clearly indicated a predominantly radial-like orientation in membranes of the myelin. Two-dimensional Raman images, made under optimal polarization of incident laser beam, corroborated the proposed carotenoid orientation within the bilayer. Experimental data suggested the tilted orientation of both carotenoid polyenic and lipid acyl chains. The values of maximum tilt angles were similar, with possible implication of carotenoid-induced ordering effect on lipid acyl chains, and hence change of myelin membrane properties. This study stages carotenoids of the nerve as possible mediators of excitation and leverages underlying activity-dependent membrane reordering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolay P Kutuzov
- Biophysics Department, Biological Faculty, Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia.
| | - Alexey R Brazhe
- Biophysics Department, Biological Faculty, Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Georgy V Maksimov
- Biophysics Department, Biological Faculty, Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Olga E Dracheva
- All-Russian Research Institute for Optical and Physical Measurements, Moscow, Russia
| | | | - Fedor V Bulygin
- All-Russian Research Institute for Optical and Physical Measurements, Moscow, Russia
| | - Andrey B Rubin
- Biophysics Department, Biological Faculty, Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
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Li X, Bai Z, Luo H, Liu Y, Wang G, Li J. Cloning, differential tissue expression of a novel hcApo gene, and its correlation with total carotenoid content in purple and white inner-shell color pearl mussel Hyriopsis cumingii. Gene 2014; 538:258-65. [PMID: 24486507 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2014.01.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2013] [Revised: 12/15/2013] [Accepted: 01/14/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
As a molecular carrier and storage protein, apolipoprotein (Apo) mediates the intracellular uptake of lipids, proteins, vitamins and carotenoids. In this study, we identified a novel Apo gene, designated hcApo, from the freshwater pearl mussel Hyriopsis cumingii. The complete hcApo cDNA consists of 4104 nucleotides with an open reading frame encoding 1155 amino acid residues. The hcApo protein contains a conserved lipoprotein N-terminal domain (LPD-N) that is a characteristic of the large lipid transfer protein (LLTP) superfamily. The hcApo mRNA is constitutively expressed in a wide range of tissues with the highest expression level in the liver. Moreover, differential expression analysis revealed that the hcApo gene is more highly expressed in the liver, kidney, mantle and gill of purple line mussels compared to white line mussels. In situ hybridization investigations of the precise expression site of hcApo mRNA in the mantle showed that hcApo mRNA is specifically expressed in the outer epithelial cells of the middle fold and the inner epithelial cells of the outer fold of the mantle, as well as throughout the outer epithelium of the outer fold and ventral mantle. Another very important finding is that significantly positive correlation existed between the hcApo gene expression level and the total carotenoid content in purple line mussels. These findings may provide a better understanding of the roles of hcApo in the molecular mechanisms of shell formation and coloring of H. cumingii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xilei Li
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fishery Germplasm Resources, Shanghai Ocean University, Ministry of Agriculture, Shanghai 201306, China
| | - Zhiyi Bai
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fishery Germplasm Resources, Shanghai Ocean University, Ministry of Agriculture, Shanghai 201306, China
| | - Hongrui Luo
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fishery Germplasm Resources, Shanghai Ocean University, Ministry of Agriculture, Shanghai 201306, China
| | - Yue Liu
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fishery Germplasm Resources, Shanghai Ocean University, Ministry of Agriculture, Shanghai 201306, China
| | - Guiling Wang
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fishery Germplasm Resources, Shanghai Ocean University, Ministry of Agriculture, Shanghai 201306, China
| | - Jiale Li
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fishery Germplasm Resources, Shanghai Ocean University, Ministry of Agriculture, Shanghai 201306, China; E-Institute of Shanghai Universities, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China; Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Aquaculture, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China.
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Zheng H, Liu H, Zhang T, Wang S, Sun Z, Liu W, Li Y. Total carotenoid differences in scallop tissues of Chlamys nobilis (Bivalve: Pectinidae) with regard to gender and shell colour. Food Chem 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2010.03.109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Maoka T, Akimoto N, Murakoshi M, Sugiyama K, Nishino H. Carotenoids in clams, Ruditapes philippinarum and Meretrix petechialis. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2010; 58:5784-5788. [PMID: 20397729 DOI: 10.1021/jf1006243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Carotenoids were investigated in two species of clams, Rudiapes philippinarum and Meretrix petechialis. Fucoxanthin 3-esters and fucoxanthinol 3-esters were found to be major components, along with crassostreaxanthin A 3-acetate, crassostreaxanthin A, crassostreaxanthin B 3-acetate, crassostreaxanthin B, halocynthiaxanthin 3'-acetate, halocynthiaxanthin, alloxanthin, diatoxanthin, diadinoxanthin, and heteroxanthin. Fatty acids esterified with fucoxanthin and fucoxanthinol were identified as C24:6, C22:5, C22:6, C20:5, C20:0, C20:1, C18:0, C18:1, C16:0, C16:1, and C14:0 from fast atom bombardment-mass spectrometry (FAB-MS) data. Crassostreaxanthin A 3-acetate and crassostreaxanthin B 3-acetate were first isolated and completely characterized by spectroscopic data. Furthermore, possible metabolic pathways of fucoxanthin in clams were proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Maoka
- Research Institute for Production Development, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan.
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López-Sánchez M, Ayora-Cañada MJ, Molina-Díaz A. Olive fruit growth and ripening as seen by vibrational spectroscopy. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2010; 58:82-87. [PMID: 19916545 DOI: 10.1021/jf902509f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this work was to examine the potential of ATR-FTIR and Raman spectroscopies to evaluate changes happening during the development and maturation of olive fruit. To do this, the spectra of the different parts of the olive (skin, flesh and stone) have been measured at different stages of development. The evolution of different spectral bands has been related to the content of olive constituents like triglycerides, water, carotenoids and phenolic compounds. Oil accumulation can be followed using both FTIR and Raman spectroscopy. The increase in bands at 1746 cm(-1) (ATR-FTIR) and 1440 cm(-1) (Raman) correlates well with the oil content in the fruit determined using the standard Soxhlet extraction method. In the case of overripe olives ATR-FTIR does not provide a representative spectrum of the olive flesh due to the accumulation of water on the surface of the ATR crystal. The increase of the content in carotenoids and phenolic compounds during olive growing and their decrease during the ripening phase can be successfully monitored by means of the Raman bands at 1525 and 1605 cm(-1), respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Macarena López-Sánchez
- Department of Physical and Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Experimental Sciences, University of Jaén, 23071 Jaén, Spain
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Morley NJ, Lewis JW, Hoole D. Pollutant-induced effects on immunological and physiological interactions in aquatic host–trematode systems: implications for parasite transmission. J Helminthol 2007; 80:137-49. [PMID: 16768857 DOI: 10.1079/joh2006345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
AbstractUnder conditions of pollution both host and parasite are susceptible to the pathogenic effects of toxicants, which in turn may result in detrimental changes to their immunological and physiological processes. Digenetic trematodes, which encompass species of both medical and economic importance, possess complex life cycles and are common parasites of both vertebrates and molluscs. The combined stress induced by pollution and parasitism influences the physiology of the host which can have implications not only on host survival but also on the functional biology of resident parasite populations. The present paper reviews the effects of pollutants on the immunology and physiology in both vertebrate and molluscan host–trematode systems and the implications for parasite transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- N J Morley
- School of Biological Sciences, Royal Holloway, University of London, Egham, Surrey, TW20 0EX, UK.
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Abstract
This review is a comprehensive survey of acetylenic lipids and their derivatives, obtained from living organisms, that have anticancer activity. Acetylenic metabolites belong to a class of molecules containing triple bond(s). They are found in plants, fungi, microorganisms, and marine invertebrates. Although acetylenes are common as components of terrestrial plants, fungi, and bacteria, it is only within the last 30 years that biologically active polyacetylenes having unusual structural features have been reported from plants, cyanobacteria, algae, invertebrates, and other sources. Naturally occurring aquatic acetylenes are of particular interest since many of them display important biological activities and possess antitumor, antibacterial, antimicrobial, antifouling, antifungal, pesticidal, phototoxic, HIV-inhibitory, and immunosuppressive properties. There is no doubt that they are of great interest, especially for the medicinal and/or pharmaceutical industries. This review presents structures and describes cytotoxic and anticancer activities only for more than 300 acetylenic lipids and their derivatives isolated from living organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valery M Dembitsky
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Natural Products, School of Pharmacy, P.O. Box 12065, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91120, Israel.
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A. Olson V. Estimating nutrient intake in comparative studies of animals: an example using dietary carotenoid content in birds. OIKOS 2006. [DOI: 10.1111/j.0030-1299.2006.14208.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Maciel FE, Rosa CE, Santos EA, Monserrat JM, Nery LE. Daily variations in oxygen consumption, antioxidant defenses, and lipid peroxidation in the gills and hepatopancreas of an estuarine crab. CAN J ZOOL 2004. [DOI: 10.1139/z04-182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
This study identified daily variations in oxygen consumption, antioxidant-defense system, and lipoperoxidation in the gills and hepatopancreas of the crab Chasmagnathus granulata (Dana, 1851) (Decapoda, Brachyura). In gills, oxygen consumption was higher in the early afternoon and in the middle of the night (p < 0.05). Lipoperoxidation level and non-proteic sulfhydryl content were higher in the middle of the night (p < 0.05). The enzyme glutathione-S-transferase showed lower activity at the end of photophase and higher values during the night (p < 0.05). The enzyme catalase did not show daily variation in activity (p > 0.05). Oxygen consumption in the hepato pancreas showed a similar profile to that in gills, i.e., higher values in the early afternoon and the middle of the night. Glutathione-S-transferase activity and lipoperoxidation levels showed significant variation, with lower values during the afternoon and peaks in the middle of the night (p < 0.05). Catalase activity was significantly higher (p < 0.05) in the middle of the night. The non-proteic sulfhydryl content remained fairly constant (p > 0.05). The results showed daily variations in aerobic metabolism of the gills and hepatopancreas of C. granulata, with concomitant oxidative damage (lipoperoxidation), but with differences between tissues. Whereas in the gills the defense system focused on catalase and non-proteic sulfhydryl, in the hepatopancreas other non-enzymatic components and other antioxidant enzymes besides catalase and glutathione-S-transferase might be involved.
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Withnall R, Chowdhry BZ, Silver J, Edwards HGM, de Oliveira LFC. Raman spectra of carotenoids in natural products. SPECTROCHIMICA ACTA. PART A, MOLECULAR AND BIOMOLECULAR SPECTROSCOPY 2003; 59:2207-12. [PMID: 12909134 DOI: 10.1016/s1386-1425(03)00064-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 153] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Resonance Raman spectra of naturally occurring carotenoids have been obtained from nautilus, periwinkle (Littorina littorea) and clam shells under 514.5 nm excitation and these spectra are compared with the resonance Raman spectra obtained in situ from tomatoes, carrots, red peppers and saffron. The tomatoes, carrots and red peppers gave rise to resonance Raman spectra exhibiting a nu1 band at ca. 1520 cm(-1), in keeping with its assignment to carotenoids with ca. nine conjugated carbon-carbon double bonds in their main chains, whereas the resonance Raman spectrum of saffron showed a nu1 band at 1537 cm(-1) which can be assigned to crocetin, having seven conjugated carbon-carbon double bonds. A correlation between nu1 wavenumber location and effective conjugated chain length has been used to interpret the data obtained from the shells, and the wavenumber position (1522 cm(-1)) of the nu1 band of the carotenoid in the orange clam shell suggests that it contains nine conjugated double bonds in the main chain. However, the black periwinkle and nautilus shells exhibit nu1 bands at 1504 and 1496 cm(-1), respectively. On the basis of the correlation between nu1 wavenumber location and effective conjugated chain length, this indicates that they contain carotenoids with longer conjugated chains, the former having ca. 11 double bonds and the latter ca. 13 or even more. Raman spectra of the nautilus, periwinkle and clam shells also exhibited a strong band at 1085 cm(-1) and a doublet with components at 701 and 705 cm(-1), which can be assigned to biogenic calcium carbonate in the aragonite crystallographic form.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Withnall
- School of Chemical and Life Sciences, University of Greenwich, Pembroke, Chatham Maritime Campus, Chatham, Kent ME4 4TB, UK.
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Arcangeli C, Cannistraro S. In situ Raman microspectroscopic identification and localization of carotenoids: approach to monitoring of UV-B irradiation stress on Antarctic fungus. Biopolymers 2000; 57:179-86. [PMID: 10805915 DOI: 10.1002/(sici)1097-0282(2000)57:3<179::aid-bip6>3.0.co;2-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The in situ Raman microspectroscopic properties of an Antarctic fungus are investigated to assess the nature and the spatial localization of the main chromophores and to study their spectral changes under enhanced UV-B irradiation. The Raman spectroscopic features of spores in situ are consistent with those of carotenoid-like pigments. In particular, the Raman shifts seem to be related either to the frequency modes of long conjugated double-bond carotenoids or to protein bound beta-carotene. The spectroscopic analysis at different spore depths clearly shows the strongest Raman signal arises from cell wall and membrane structures. The intensity of such a signal shows a drastic reduction upon UV-B irradiation without any significant frequency change. The use of Raman microspectroscopy for nondestructively monitoring the UV-B effects on Arthrobotrys ferox spores is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Arcangeli
- Unità INFM, Dipartimento di Fisica dell'Università, I-06100 Perugia, Italy and Dipartimento di Scienze Ambientali, Università della Tuscia, I-01100 Viterbo, Italy
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Abstract
Carotenoids first emerged in archaebacteria as lipids reinforcing cell membranes. To serve this function their long molecules have extremely rigid backbone due to the linear chain of usually 10 to 11 conjugated C=C bonds in transconfiguration--the length corresponding the thickness of hydrophobic zone of membrane which they penetrate as "molecular rivets". Carotenoids retain their membrane-reinforcing function in some fungi and animals. The general structure of carotenoid molecule, originally having evolved for mechanical functions in membranes, possess a number of other properties that were later used for independent functions. The most striking fact is that these properties proved to fit some new functions to perfection. The polyene chain of 9-11 double bonds absorbs light precisely in the gap of chlorophyll absorption--function as accessory light-harvesting pigments in all plants; Unique arrangement of electronic levels owing to the by polyene chain structure makes carotenoids the only natural compounds capable of excitation energy transfer both (i) from carotenoid excited state to chlorophyll in the light-harvesting complex and (ii) from triplet chlorophyll or singlet oxygen to carotenoid in photosynthetic reaction centers--protection of RC from photodamage. The linear system of conjugated C=C bonds provides high reducing potential of carotenoid molecules making them potent antioxidants in lipid formations. Still, there is a lack of evidence of the chemical antioxidant function of carotenoids, especially in higher organisms; most data demonstrate an antioxidant ability rather than a function. Carotenoids have many other independent biological functions, including: specific coloration patterns in plants and animals, screening from excessive light and spectral filtering, defense of egg proteins from proteases in some invertebrates; the direct carotenoid derivative--retinal--acts as visual pigment in all animals and as chromophore in bacteriorhodopsin photosynthesis, retinoic acid in animals and abscisic acid in plants serve as hormones. All these functions utilize various properties (mechanical, electronic, stereospecific) of a single structure evolved in bacteria for a single membrane-reinforcing function, thus demonstrating an example of pure evolutionary preadaptation. One of the practical conclusions that can be reached by reviewing uniquely diverse properties and functions of carotenoids is that, when considering possible mechanisms of their effects in organisms (e.g., anticarcinogenic action), all their functional traits should be taken into account.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Vershinin
- Institute of Oceanology RAS, Moscow, Russia.
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