1
|
Chi-Ho Ip J, T Y Leung P, K Y Ho K, Qiu JW, M Y Leung K. Transcriptomic analysis reveals the endocrine toxicity of tributyltin and triphenyltin on the whelk Reishia clavigera and mechanisms of imposex formation. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2024; 190:108867. [PMID: 38968833 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2024.108867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/07/2024]
Abstract
Organotin compounds (OTs) are endocrine disruptors that induce imposex in hundreds of gastropods, but little is known about their underlying molecular mechanisms. This study aimed to investigate the endocrine toxicity and molecular responses to tributyltin (TBT) and triphenyltin (TPT) exposure in the whelk Reishia clavigera, which often serves as a biomonitor for OT contamination. Over a 120-day exposure to environmentally relevant concentrations of TBT (1000 ng L-1) and TPT (500 ng L-1), we observed a significant increase in penis length in both male and female whelks. Notably, TPT exhibited a stronger potency in inducing pseudo-penis development and female sterility, even at a half dose of TBT. Bioaccumulation analysis also revealed higher persistence and accumulation of TPT in whelk tissues compared to TBT. Differential expression analysis identified a substantial number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs), with TPT exposure eliciting more DEGs than TBT. Our results demonstrated that OTs induced xenobiotic metabolism and metabolic dysregulation in the digestive gland, impaired multiple cellular functions and triggered neurotoxicity in the nervous system, and disrupted lipid homeostasis and oxidative stress in the gonads. Furthermore, imposex was possibly associated with disturbances in retinoic acid metabolism, nuclear receptor signaling, and neuropeptide activity. When compared to TBT, TPT exhibited a more pronounced endocrine-disrupting effect, attributable to its higher bioaccumulation and substantial interruption of transcriptional regulation, OT detoxification, and biosynthesis of retinoic acids in R. clavigera. Our results, therefore, highlight the importance of considering the differences in bioaccumulation and molecular toxicity between TBT and TPT in future risk assessments of these contaminants. Overall, our study provided molecular insights into the toxicity and transcriptome profiles in R. clavigera exposed to TBT and TPT, shedding light on the endocrine-disrupting effects and reproductive impairment in female gastropods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jack Chi-Ho Ip
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; Science Unit, Lingnan University, Hong Kong SAR, China; The Swire Institute of Marine Science and School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
| | - Priscilla T Y Leung
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Kevin K Y Ho
- The Swire Institute of Marine Science and School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Jian-Wen Qiu
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; Department of Biology, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Kenneth M Y Leung
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; Department of Chemistry and School of Energy and Environment, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Favrel P, Dubos MP, Bernay B, Pasquier J, Schwartz J, Lefranc B, Mouret L, Rivière G, Leprince J, Bondon A. Structural and functional characterization of an egg-laying hormone signaling system in a lophotrochozoan - The pacific oyster (Crassostrea gigas). Gen Comp Endocrinol 2024; 346:114417. [PMID: 38030018 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2023.114417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
The egg-laying hormones (ELHs) of gastropod mollusks were characterized more than forty years ago. Yet, they have remained little explored in other mollusks. To gain insights into the functionality of the ELH signaling system in a bivalve mollusk - the oyster Crassostrea gigas, this study investigates the processing of its ELH precursor (Cragi-ELH) by mass spectrometry. Some of the ELH mature peptides identified in this study were subsequently investigated by nuclear magnetic resonance and shown to adopt an extended alpha-helix structure in a micellar medium mimicking the plasma membrane. To further characterize the ELH signaling system in C. gigas, a G protein-coupled receptor phylogenetically related to ecdysozoan diuretic hormone DH44 and corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) receptors named Cragi-ELHR was also characterized functionally and shown to be specifically activated by the two predicted mature ELH peptides and their N-terminal fragments. Both Cragi-ELH and Cragi-ELHR encoding genes were mostly expressed in the visceral ganglia (VG). Cragi-ELH expression was significantly increased in the VG of both fully mature male and female oysters at the spawning stage. When the oysters were submitted to a nutritional or hyposaline stress, no change in the expression of the ligand or receptor genes was recorded, except for Cragi-ELHR only during a mild acclimation episode to brackish water. These results suggest a role of Cragi-ELH signaling in the regulation of reproduction but not in mediating the stress response in our experimental conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- P Favrel
- Université Caen Normandie, Normandie Univ, Sorbonne Universités, MNHN, UPMC, UA, CNRS 7208, IRD 207, Biologie des Organismes et Ecosystèmes Aquatiques (BOREA), CS14032, Esplanade de la Paix, 14032 Caen, Cedex 5, France.
| | - M P Dubos
- Université Caen Normandie, Normandie Univ, Sorbonne Universités, MNHN, UPMC, UA, CNRS 7208, IRD 207, Biologie des Organismes et Ecosystèmes Aquatiques (BOREA), CS14032, Esplanade de la Paix, 14032 Caen, Cedex 5, France
| | - B Bernay
- Université Caen Normandie, Normandie Univ, US EMERODE, PROTEOGEN Core Facility, Esplanade de la Paix, 14032 Caen, cedex 05, France
| | - J Pasquier
- Université Caen Normandie, Normandie Univ, Sorbonne Universités, MNHN, UPMC, UA, CNRS 7208, IRD 207, Biologie des Organismes et Ecosystèmes Aquatiques (BOREA), CS14032, Esplanade de la Paix, 14032 Caen, Cedex 5, France
| | - J Schwartz
- Université Caen Normandie, Normandie Univ, Sorbonne Universités, MNHN, UPMC, UA, CNRS 7208, IRD 207, Biologie des Organismes et Ecosystèmes Aquatiques (BOREA), CS14032, Esplanade de la Paix, 14032 Caen, Cedex 5, France
| | - B Lefranc
- Université Rouen Normandie, INSERM, Normandie Univ, NorDic UMR1239, Laboratoire de Différenciation et Communication Neuroendocrine, Endocrine et Germinale, F-76000 Rouen, France
| | - L Mouret
- Univ Rennes, CNRS, ISCR-UMR 6226, F-35000 Rennes, France
| | - G Rivière
- Université Caen Normandie, Normandie Univ, Sorbonne Universités, MNHN, UPMC, UA, CNRS 7208, IRD 207, Biologie des Organismes et Ecosystèmes Aquatiques (BOREA), CS14032, Esplanade de la Paix, 14032 Caen, Cedex 5, France
| | - J Leprince
- Université Rouen Normandie, INSERM, Normandie Univ, NorDic UMR1239, Laboratoire de Différenciation et Communication Neuroendocrine, Endocrine et Germinale, F-76000 Rouen, France
| | - A Bondon
- Univ Rennes, CNRS, ISCR-UMR 6226, F-35000 Rennes, France
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Machado CV, Mentz MB, Hartke S, Zancan DM. Occurrence of Cruzia tentaculata Larvae in the Land Snail Megalobulimus abbreviatus-Influence of Natural Parasite Load on Snail Physiology. Zoolog Sci 2023; 40:475-485. [PMID: 38064375 DOI: 10.2108/zs230047] [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] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
The nematode Cruzia tentaculata is reported here for the first time in the land snail Megalobulimus abbreviatus in southern Brazil. The snails were infected with a high prevalence of larvae up to the L3 stage (68.6%). Cysts were located mainly in the mantle (pulmonary cavity) and the nerve ring. No other helminths were identified in the collected snails. Some physiological aspects were compared between snails infected with L3 larvae and non-infected snails and among infected animals with different parasite loads. No differences were found in hemolymph protein, glucose, or urea content between L3-infected and non-infected snails, nor among animals with different parasite loads. Discontinuous lesions in the rectum associated with the presence of encapsulated larvae were visible in animals with high parasite loads and were more frequent in adult animals. All analyses were carried out during the breeding season; however, the albumen glands of mature snails had a smaller volume in those with higher parasite loads. Ovotestis weight was also significantly negatively correlated with parasite load. Snail reproductive capacity could, therefore, be partially impaired but only for individuals with higher parasite loads. Considering only the measured parameters, natural infection by C. tentaculata does not appear to affect intermediary metabolism of M. abbreviatus. A greater number of larvae and greater severity of tissue injuries are more frequently observed in older snails.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Clivia Valle Machado
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Neurociências, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde (ICBS), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Brazil
| | - Marcia B Mentz
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Parasitologia e Imunologia, ICBS, UFRGS, Brazil
| | - Sara Hartke
- Departamento de Fisiologia, ICBS, UFRGS, Brazil
| | - Denise M Zancan
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Neurociências, Instituto de Ciências Básicas da Saúde (ICBS), Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Brazil,
- Departamento de Fisiologia, ICBS, UFRGS, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Lee CA, Romanova EV, Southey BR, Gillette R, Sweedler JV. Comparative Analysis of Neuropeptides in Homologous Interneurons and Prohormone Annotation in Nudipleuran Sea Slugs. Front Physiol 2022; 12:809529. [PMID: 35002782 PMCID: PMC8735849 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.809529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite substantial research on neuronal circuits in nudipleuran gastropods, few peptides have been implicated in nudipleuran behavior. In this study, we expanded the understanding of peptides in this clade, using three species with well-studied nervous systems, Hermissenda crassicornis, Melibe leonina, and Pleurobranchaea californica. For each species, we performed sequence homology analysis of de novo transcriptome predictions to identify homologs to 34 of 36 prohormones previously characterized in the gastropods Aplysia californica and Lymnaea stagnalis. We then used single-cell mass spectrometry to characterize peptide profiles in homologous feeding interneurons: the multifunctional ventral white cell (VWC) in P. californica and the small cardioactive peptide B large buccal (SLB) cells in H. crassicornis and M. leonina. The neurons produced overlapping, but not identical, peptide profiles. The H. crassicornis SLB cells expressed peptides from homologs to the FMRFamide (FMRFa), small cardioactive peptide (SCP), LFRFamide (LFRFa), and feeding circuit activating peptides prohormones. The M. leonina SLB cells expressed peptides from homologs to the FMRFa, SCP, LFRFa, and MIP-related peptides prohormones. The VWC, previously shown to express peptides from the FMRFa and QNFLa (a homolog of A. californica pedal peptide 4) prohormones, was shown to also contain SCP peptides. Thus, each neuron expressed peptides from the FMRFa and SCP families, the H. crassicornis and M. leonina SLB cells expressed peptides from the LFRFa family, and each neuron contained peptides from a prohormone not found in the others. These data suggest each neuron performs complex co-transmission, which potentially facilitates a multifunctional role in feeding. Additionally, the unique feeding characteristics of each species may relate, in part, to differences in the peptide profiles of these neurons. These data add chemical insight to enhance our understanding of the neuronal basis of behavior in nudipleurans and other gastropods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Colin A Lee
- Neuroscience Program, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Elena V Romanova
- Neuroscience Program, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States.,Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Bruce R Southey
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Rhanor Gillette
- Neuroscience Program, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States.,Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Jonathan V Sweedler
- Neuroscience Program, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States.,Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Rosato M, Hoelscher B, Lin Z, Agwu C, Xu F. Transcriptome analysis provides genome annotation and expression profiles in the central nervous system of Lymnaea stagnalis at different ages. BMC Genomics 2021; 22:637. [PMID: 34479505 PMCID: PMC8414863 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-021-07946-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The pond snail, Lymnaea stagnalis (L. stagnalis), has served as a valuable model organism for neurobiology studies due to its simple and easily accessible central nervous system (CNS). L. stagnalis has been widely used to study neuronal networks and recently gained popularity for study of aging and neurodegenerative diseases. However, previous transcriptome studies of L. stagnalis CNS have been exclusively carried out on adult L. stagnalis only. As part of our ongoing effort studying L. stagnalis neuronal growth and connectivity at various developmental stages, we provide the first age-specific transcriptome analysis and gene annotation of young (3 months), adult (6 months), and old (18 months) L. stagnalis CNS. RESULTS Using the above three age cohorts, our study generated 55-69 millions of 150 bp paired-end RNA sequencing reads using the Illumina NovaSeq 6000 platform. Of these reads, ~ 74% were successfully mapped to the reference genome of L. stagnalis. Our reference-based transcriptome assembly predicted 42,478 gene loci, of which 37,661 genes encode coding sequences (CDS) of at least 100 codons. In addition, we provide gene annotations using Blast2GO and functional annotations using Pfam for ~ 95% of these sequences, contributing to the largest number of annotated genes in L. stagnalis CNS so far. Moreover, among 242 previously cloned L. stagnalis genes, we were able to match ~ 87% of them in our transcriptome assembly, indicating a high percentage of gene coverage. The expressional differences for innexins, FMRFamide, and molluscan insulin peptide genes were validated by real-time qPCR. Lastly, our transcriptomic analyses revealed distinct, age-specific gene clusters, differentially expressed genes, and enriched pathways in young, adult, and old CNS. More specifically, our data show significant changes in expression of critical genes involved in transcription factors, metabolisms (e.g. cytochrome P450), extracellular matrix constituent, and signaling receptor and transduction (e.g. receptors for acetylcholine, N-Methyl-D-aspartic acid, and serotonin), as well as stress- and disease-related genes in young compared to either adult or old snails. CONCLUSIONS Together, these datasets are the largest and most updated L. stagnalis CNS transcriptomes, which will serve as a resource for future molecular studies and functional annotation of transcripts and genes in L. stagnalis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martina Rosato
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, USA.,Henry and Amelia Nasrallah Center for Neuroscience, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Brittany Hoelscher
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, USA.,Henry and Amelia Nasrallah Center for Neuroscience, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Zhenguo Lin
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Chidera Agwu
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Fenglian Xu
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Sciences, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, USA. .,Henry and Amelia Nasrallah Center for Neuroscience, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, USA. .,Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Saint Louis University, School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Rolón-Martínez S, Habib MR, Mansour TA, Díaz-Ríos M, Rosenthal JJC, Zhou XN, Croll RP, Miller MW. FMRF-NH 2 -related neuropeptides in Biomphalaria spp., intermediate hosts for schistosomiasis: Precursor organization and immunohistochemical localization. J Comp Neurol 2021; 529:3336-3358. [PMID: 34041754 PMCID: PMC8273141 DOI: 10.1002/cne.25195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Freshwater snails of the genus Biomphalaria serve as intermediate hosts for the digenetic trematode Schistosoma mansoni, the etiological agent for the most widespread form of intestinal schistosomiasis. As neuropeptide signaling in host snails can be altered by trematode infection, a neural transcriptomics approach was undertaken to identify peptide precursors in Biomphalaria glabrata, the major intermediate host for S. mansoni in the Western Hemisphere. Three transcripts that encode peptides belonging to the FMRF-NH2 -related peptide (FaRP) family were identified in B. glabrata. One transcript encoded a precursor polypeptide (Bgl-FaRP1; 292 amino acids) that included eight copies of the tetrapeptide FMRF-NH2 and single copies of FIRF-NH2 , FLRF-NH2 , and pQFYRI-NH2 . The second transcript encoded a precursor (Bgl-FaRP2; 347 amino acids) that comprised 14 copies of the heptapeptide GDPFLRF-NH2 and 1 copy of SKPYMRF-NH2 . The precursor encoded by the third transcript (Bgl-FaRP3; 287 amino acids) recapitulated Bgl-FaRP2 but lacked the full SKPYMRF-NH2 peptide. The three precursors shared a common signal peptide, suggesting a genomic organization described previously in gastropods. Immunohistochemical studies were performed on the nervous systems of B. glabrata and B. alexandrina, a major intermediate host for S. mansoni in Egypt. FMRF-NH2 -like immunoreactive (FMRF-NH2 -li) neurons were located in regions of the central nervous system associated with reproduction, feeding, and cardiorespiration. Antisera raised against non-FMRF-NH2 peptides present in the tetrapeptide and heptapeptide precursors labeled independent subsets of the FMRF-NH2 -li neurons. This study supports the participation of FMRF-NH2 -related neuropeptides in the regulation of vital physiological and behavioral systems that are altered by parasitism in Biomphalaria.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Solymar Rolón-Martínez
- Institute of Neurobiology and Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Puerto Rico, Medical Sciences Campus, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | - Mohamed R Habib
- Medical Malacology Laboratory, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Giza, Egypt
| | - Tamer A Mansour
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, California, USA
- Department of Clinical Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Mansoura, Mansoura, Egypt
| | | | | | - Xiao-Nong Zhou
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Roger P Croll
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Mark W Miller
- Institute of Neurobiology and Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Puerto Rico, Medical Sciences Campus, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Wood EA, Stopka SA, Zhang L, Mattson S, Maasz G, Pirger Z, Vertes A. Neuropeptide Localization in Lymnaea stagnalis: From the Central Nervous System to Subcellular Compartments. Front Mol Neurosci 2021; 14:670303. [PMID: 34093125 PMCID: PMC8172996 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2021.670303] [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: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Due to the relatively small number of neurons (few tens of thousands), the well-established multipurpose model organism Lymnaea stagnalis, great pond snail, has been extensively used to study the functioning of the nervous system. Unlike the more complex brains of higher organisms, L. stagnalis has a relatively simple central nervous system (CNS) with well-defined circuits (e.g., feeding, locomotion, learning, and memory) and identified individual neurons (e.g., cerebral giant cell, CGC), which generate behavioral patterns. Accumulating information from electrophysiological experiments maps the network of neuronal connections and the neuronal circuits responsible for basic life functions. Chemical signaling between synaptic-coupled neurons is underpinned by neurotransmitters and neuropeptides. This review looks at the rapidly expanding contributions of mass spectrometry (MS) to neuropeptide discovery and identification at different granularity of CNS organization. Abundances and distributions of neuropeptides in the whole CNS, eleven interconnected ganglia, neuronal clusters, single neurons, and subcellular compartments are captured by MS imaging and single cell analysis techniques. Combining neuropeptide expression and electrophysiological data, and aided by genomic and transcriptomic information, the molecular basis of CNS-controlled biological functions is increasingly revealed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ellen A. Wood
- Department of Chemistry, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Sylwia A. Stopka
- Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Linwen Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Sara Mattson
- Department of Chemistry, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Gabor Maasz
- Balaton Limnological Research Institute, Eötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH), Tihany, Hungary
- Soós Ernő Research and Development Center, University of Pannonia, Nagykanizsa, Hungary
| | - Zsolt Pirger
- Balaton Limnological Research Institute, Eötvös Loránd Research Network (ELKH), Tihany, Hungary
| | - Akos Vertes
- Department of Chemistry, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Rosa-Casillas M, de Jesús PM, Vicente Rodríguez LC, Habib MR, Croll RP, Miller MW. Identification and localization of a gonadotropin-releasing hormone-related neuropeptide in Biomphalaria, an intermediate host for schistosomiasis. J Comp Neurol 2021; 529:2347-2361. [PMID: 33368267 DOI: 10.1002/cne.25099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2020] [Revised: 11/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Freshwater snails of the genus Biomphalaria serve as obligatory hosts for the digenetic trematode Schistosoma mansoni, the causative agent for the most widespread form of intestinal schistosomiasis. Within Biomphalaria, S. mansoni larvae multiply and transform into the cercariae form that can infect humans. Trematode development and proliferation is thought to be facilitated by modifications of host behavior and physiological processes, including a reduction of reproduction known as "parasitic castration." As neuropeptides participate in the control of reproduction across phylogeny, a neural transcriptomics approach was undertaken to identify peptides that could regulate Biomphalaria reproductive physiology. The present study identified a transcript in Biomphalaria alexandrina that encodes a peptide belonging to the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) superfamily. The precursor and the predicted mature peptide, pQIHFTPDWGNN-NH2 (designated Biom-GnRH), share features with peptides identified in other molluscan species, including panpulmonates, opisthobranchs, and cephalopods. An antibody generated against Biom-GnRH labeled neurons in the cerebral, pedal, and visceral ganglia of Biomphalaria glabrata. GnRH-like immunoreactive fiber systems projected to all central ganglia. In the periphery, immunoreactive material was detected in the ovotestis, oviduct, albumen gland, and nidamental gland. As these structures serve crucial roles in the production, transport, nourishment, and encapsulation of eggs, disruption of the GnRH system of Biomphalaria could contribute to reduced reproductive activity in infected snails.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mariela Rosa-Casillas
- Institute of Neurobiology and Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Puerto Rico, Medical Sciences Campus, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | - Paola Méndez de Jesús
- Institute of Neurobiology and Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Puerto Rico, Medical Sciences Campus, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | | | - Mohamed R Habib
- Medical Malacology Department, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Giza, Egypt
| | - Roger P Croll
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Mark W Miller
- Institute of Neurobiology and Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Puerto Rico, Medical Sciences Campus, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Wang H, Zhang H, Zhong Z, Sun Y, Wang M, Chen H, Zhou L, Cao L, Lian C, Li C. Molecular analyses of the gill symbiosis of the bathymodiolin mussel Gigantidas platifrons. iScience 2020; 24:101894. [PMID: 33364583 PMCID: PMC7750550 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2020.101894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Revised: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Although the deep-sea bathymodiolin mussels have been intensively studied as a model of animal-bacteria symbiosis, it remains challenging to assess the host-symbiont interactions due to the complexity of the symbiotic tissue-the gill. Using cold-seep mussel Gigantidas platifrons as a model, we isolated the symbiont harboring bacteriocytes and profiled the transcriptomes of the three major parts of the symbiosis-the gill, the bacteriocyte, and the symbiont. This breakdown of the complex symbiotic tissue allowed us to characterize the host-symbiont interactions further. Our data showed that the gill's non-symbiotic parts play crucial roles in maintaining and protecting the symbiosis; the bacteriocytes supply the symbiont with metabolites, control symbiont population, and shelter the symbiont from phage infection; the symbiont dedicates to the methane oxidation and energy production. This study demonstrates that the bathymodiolin symbiosis interacts at the tissue, cellular, and molecular level, maintaining high efficiency and harmonic chemosynthetic micro niche.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hao Wang
- Center of Deep-Sea Research, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 7 Nanhai Road, Qingdao 266071, P. R. China.,Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, P. R. China
| | - Huan Zhang
- Center of Deep-Sea Research, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 7 Nanhai Road, Qingdao 266071, P. R. China.,Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, P. R. China
| | - Zhaoshan Zhong
- Center of Deep-Sea Research, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 7 Nanhai Road, Qingdao 266071, P. R. China.,Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, P. R. China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Sun
- Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, P. R. China.,Key Laboratory of Marine Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, P. R. China
| | - Minxiao Wang
- Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, P. R. China.,Key Laboratory of Marine Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, P. R. China
| | - Hao Chen
- Center of Deep-Sea Research, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 7 Nanhai Road, Qingdao 266071, P. R. China.,Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, P. R. China
| | - Li Zhou
- Center of Deep-Sea Research, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 7 Nanhai Road, Qingdao 266071, P. R. China.,Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, P. R. China
| | - Lei Cao
- Center of Deep-Sea Research, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 7 Nanhai Road, Qingdao 266071, P. R. China.,Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, P. R. China
| | - Chao Lian
- Center of Deep-Sea Research, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 7 Nanhai Road, Qingdao 266071, P. R. China.,Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, P. R. China
| | - Chaolun Li
- Center of Deep-Sea Research, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 7 Nanhai Road, Qingdao 266071, P. R. China.,Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, P. R. China.,Key Laboratory of Marine Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao, P. R. China.,Laboratory for Marine Ecology and Environmental Science, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Yañez-Guerra LA, Zhong X, Moghul I, Butts T, Zampronio CG, Jones AM, Mirabeau O, Elphick MR. Echinoderms provide missing link in the evolution of PrRP/sNPF-type neuropeptide signalling. eLife 2020; 9:57640. [PMID: 32579512 PMCID: PMC7314547 DOI: 10.7554/elife.57640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropeptide signalling systems comprising peptide ligands and cognate receptors are evolutionarily ancient regulators of physiology and behaviour. However, there are challenges associated with determination of orthology between neuropeptides in different taxa. Orthologs of vertebrate neuropeptide-Y (NPY) known as neuropeptide-F (NPF) have been identified in protostome invertebrates, whilst prolactin-releasing peptide (PrRP) and short neuropeptide-F (sNPF) have been identified as paralogs of NPY/NPF in vertebrates and protostomes, respectively. Here we investigated the occurrence of NPY/NPF/PrRP/sNPF-related signalling systems in a deuterostome invertebrate phylum - the Echinodermata. Analysis of transcriptome/genome sequence data revealed loss of NPY/NPF-type signalling, but orthologs of PrRP-type neuropeptides and sNPF/PrRP-type receptors were identified in echinoderms. Furthermore, experimental studies revealed that the PrRP-type neuropeptide pQDRSKAMQAERTGQLRRLNPRF-NH2 is a potent ligand for a sNPF/PrRP-type receptor in the starfish Asterias rubens. Our findings indicate that PrRP-type and sNPF-type signalling systems are orthologous and originated as a paralog of NPY/NPF-type signalling in Urbilateria.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Xingxing Zhong
- Queen Mary University of London, School of Biological and Chemical Sciences, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ismail Moghul
- Queen Mary University of London, School of Biological and Chemical Sciences, London, United Kingdom
| | - Thomas Butts
- Queen Mary University of London, School of Biological and Chemical Sciences, London, United Kingdom
| | - Cleidiane G Zampronio
- School of Life Sciences and Proteomics Research Technology Platform, University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
| | - Alexandra M Jones
- School of Life Sciences and Proteomics Research Technology Platform, University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
| | | | - Maurice R Elphick
- Queen Mary University of London, School of Biological and Chemical Sciences, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Zhu Y, Sun LL, Wu JH, Liu HH, Zheng LB, Lü ZM, Chi CF. An FMRFamide Neuropeptide in Cuttlefish Sepia pharaonis: Identification, Characterization, and Potential Function. Molecules 2020; 25:E1636. [PMID: 32252312 PMCID: PMC7180943 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25071636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Revised: 03/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropeptides are released by neurons that are involved in a wide range of brain functions, such as food intake, metabolism, reproduction, and learning and memory. A full-length cDNA sequence of an FMRFamide gene isolated from the cuttlefish Sepia pharaonis (designated as SpFMRFamide) was cloned. The predicted precursor protein contains one putative signal peptide and four FMRFamide-related peptides. Multiple amino acid and nucleotide sequence alignments showed that it shares 97% similarity with the precursor FMRFamides of Sepiella japonica and Sepia officinalis and shares 93% and 92% similarity with the SpFMRFamide gene of the two cuttlefish species, respectively. Moreover, the phylogenetic analysis also suggested that SpFMRFamide and FMRFamides from S. japonica and S. officinalis belong to the same sub-branch. Tissue expression analysis confirmed that SpFMRFamide was widely distributed among tissues and predominantly expressed in the brain at the three development stages. The combined effects of SpFMRFamide+SpGnRH and SpFLRFamide+SpGnRH showed a marked decrease in the level of the total proteins released in the CHO-K1 cells. This is the first report of SpFMRFamide in S. pharaonis and the results may contribute to future studies of neuropeptide evolution or may prove useful for the development of aquaculture methods for this cuttlefish species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Chang-feng Chi
- National and Provincial Joint Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Marine Aquatic Genetic Resources, National Engineering Research Center of Marine Facilities Aquaculture, School of Marine Science and Technology, Zhejiang Ocean University, 1st Haidanan Road, Changzhi Island, Lincheng, Zhoushan 316022, China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Skála V, Walker AJ, Horák P. Snail defence responses to parasite infection: The Lymnaea stagnalis-Trichobilharzia szidati model. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2020; 102:103464. [PMID: 31402190 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2019.103464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2019] [Revised: 08/01/2019] [Accepted: 08/01/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Lymnaea stagnalis is a common freshwater gastropod. Importantly, the snail serves as the intermediate host for more than one hundred species of digenetic trematodes, including the avian schistosome Trichobilharzia szidati, a causative agent of cercarial dermatitis in humans. Infection of L. stagnalis by T. szidati initiates a dynamic confrontation between the host and the parasite that culminates in immunocompatibility ensuring survival and development of larvae. Unfortunately, the molecular mechanisms determining this immunocompatibility remain poorly characterised. By employing a variety of immune elicitors, including chemical compounds, PAMPs and bacteria, research in the last two decades has elucidated some of the molecular processes that regulate the snail internal defence response such as haemocyte signalling pathways. These discoveries provide a framework for future studies of molecular interactions between T. szidati and L. stagnalis to help elucidate factors and mechanisms enabling transmission of schistosome parasites. Moreover, support from recently available next generation sequence data and CRISPR-enabled functional genomics should further enable L. stagnalis as an important model for comparative immunology and contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of immune functions in gastropod molluscs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vladimír Skála
- General University Hospital and the First Faculty of Medicine of Charles University, Institute of Medical Biochemistry and Laboratory Diagnostics, Prague, Czech Republic; Charles University, First Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Immunology and Microbiology, Prague, Czech Republic.
| | - Anthony J Walker
- Kingston University, Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, School of Life Sciences Pharmacy and Chemistry, Kingston upon Thames, Surrey, United Kingdom
| | - Petr Horák
- Charles University, Faculty of Science, Department of Parasitology, Prague, Czech Republic
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Kim MA, Markkandan K, Han NY, Park JM, Lee JS, Lee H, Sohn YC. Neural Ganglia Transcriptome and Peptidome Associated with Sexual Maturation in Female Pacific Abalone ( Haliotis discus hannai). Genes (Basel) 2019; 10:genes10040268. [PMID: 30987054 PMCID: PMC6523705 DOI: 10.3390/genes10040268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2018] [Revised: 03/13/2019] [Accepted: 03/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic information of reproduction and growth is essential for sustainable molluscan fisheries and aquaculture management. However, there is limited knowledge regarding the reproductive activity of the commercially important Pacific abalone Haliotisdiscushannai. We performed de novo transcriptome sequencing of the ganglia in sexually immature and mature female Pacific abalone to better understand the sexual maturation process and the underlying molecular mechanisms. Of the ~305 million high-quality clean reads, 76,684 transcripts were de novo-assembled with an average length of 741 bp, 28.54% of which were annotated and classified according to Gene Ontology terms. There were 256 differentially expressed genes between the immature and mature abalone. Tandem mass spectrometry analysis, as compared to the predicted-peptide database of abalone ganglia transcriptome unigenes, identified 42 neuropeptide precursors, including 29 validated by peptidomic analyses. Label-free quantification revealed differential occurrences of 18 neuropeptide families between immature and mature abalone, including achatin, FMRFamide, crustacean cardioactive peptide, and pedal peptide A and B that were significantly more frequent at the mature stage. These results represent the first significant contribution to both maturation-related transcriptomic and peptidomic resources of the Pacific abalone ganglia and provide insight into the roles of various neuropeptides in reproductive regulation in marine gastropods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mi Ae Kim
- Department of Marine Molecular Bioscience, Gangneung-Wonju National University, Gangneung 25457, Korea.
- The East Coast Research Institute of Life Science, Gangneung-Wonju National University, Gangneung 25457, Korea.
| | | | - Na-Young Han
- College of Pharmacy, Gachon University, Incheon 21936, Korea.
| | - Jong-Moon Park
- College of Pharmacy, Gachon University, Incheon 21936, Korea.
| | - Jung Sick Lee
- Department of Aqualife Medicine, Chonnam National University, Yeosu 59626, Korea.
| | - Hookeun Lee
- College of Pharmacy, Gachon University, Incheon 21936, Korea.
| | - Young Chang Sohn
- Department of Marine Molecular Bioscience, Gangneung-Wonju National University, Gangneung 25457, Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
De Oliveira AL, Calcino A, Wanninger A. Extensive conservation of the proneuropeptide and peptide prohormone complement in mollusks. Sci Rep 2019; 9:4846. [PMID: 30890731 PMCID: PMC6425005 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-40949-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2018] [Accepted: 02/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
As one of the most diverse groups of invertebrate animals, mollusks represent powerful models for neurobiological and developmental studies. Neuropeptides and peptide hormones are a heterogeneous class of signalling molecules involved in chemical communication between neurons and in neuroendocrine regulation. Here we present a fine-grained view of the molluscan neuropeptide and peptide hormone toolkit. Our results expand the distribution of several peptide families (e.g., prokineticin, insulin-related peptides, prohormone-4, LFRFamide) within Lophotrochozoa and provide evidence for an early origin of others (e.g., GNXQN/prohormone-2, neuroparsin). We identified a new peptide family broadly distributed among conchiferan mollusks, the PXRX family. We found the Wnt antagonist dickkopf1/2/4 ortholog in lophotrochozoans and nematodes and reveal that the egg-laying hormone family is a DH44 homolog restricted to gastropods. Our data demonstrate that numerous peptides evolved much earlier than previously assumed and that key signalling elements are extensively conserved among extant mollusks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A L De Oliveira
- Department of Integrative Zoology, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Vienna, Althanstraße 14, Vienna, 1090, Austria
| | - A Calcino
- Department of Integrative Zoology, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Vienna, Althanstraße 14, Vienna, 1090, Austria
| | - A Wanninger
- Department of Integrative Zoology, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Vienna, Althanstraße 14, Vienna, 1090, Austria.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Fadda M, Hasakiogullari I, Temmerman L, Beets I, Zels S, Schoofs L. Regulation of Feeding and Metabolism by Neuropeptide F and Short Neuropeptide F in Invertebrates. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:64. [PMID: 30837946 PMCID: PMC6389622 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2018] [Accepted: 01/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous neuropeptide systems have been implicated to coordinately control energy homeostasis, both centrally and peripherally. However, the vertebrate neuropeptide Y (NPY) system has emerged as the best described one regarding this biological process. The protostomian ortholog of NPY is neuropeptide F, characterized by an RXRF(Y)amide carboxyterminal motif. A second neuropeptide system is short NPF, characterized by an M/T/L/FRF(W)amide carboxyterminal motif. Although both short and long NPF neuropeptide systems display carboxyterminal sequence similarities, they are evolutionary distant and likely already arose as separate signaling systems in the common ancestor of deuterostomes and protostomes, indicating the functional importance of both. Both NPF and short-NPF systems seem to have roles in the coordination of feeding across bilaterian species, but during chordate evolution, the short NPF system appears to have been lost or evolved into the prolactin releasing peptide signaling system, which regulates feeding and has been suggested to be orthologous to sNPF. Here we review the roles of both NPF and sNPF systems in the regulation of feeding and metabolism in invertebrates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Liliane Schoofs
- Department of Biology, Functional Genomics and Proteomics, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Zhang M, Wang Y, Li Y, Li W, Li R, Xie X, Wang S, Hu X, Zhang L, Bao Z. Identification and Characterization of Neuropeptides by Transcriptome and Proteome Analyses in a Bivalve Mollusc Patinopecten yessoensis. Front Genet 2018; 9:197. [PMID: 29922332 PMCID: PMC5996578 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2018.00197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2017] [Accepted: 05/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropeptides play essential roles in regulation of reproduction and growth in marine molluscs. But their function in marine bivalves – a group of animals of commercial importance – is largely unexplored due to the lack of systematic identification of these molecules. In this study, we sequenced and analyzed the transcriptome of nerve ganglia of Yesso scallop Patinopecten yessoensis, from which 63 neuropeptide genes were identified based on BLAST and de novo prediction approaches, and 31 were confirmed by proteomic analysis using the liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Fifty genes encode known neuropeptide precursors, of which 20 commonly exist in bilaterians and 30 are protostome specific. Three neuropeptides that have not yet been reported in bivalves were identified, including calcitonin/DH31, lymnokinin and pleurin. Characterization of glycoprotein hormones, insulin-like peptides, allatostatins, RFamides, and some reproduction, cardioactivity or feeding related neuropeptides reveals scallop neuropeptides have conserved molluscan neuropeptide domains, but some (e.g., GPB5, APGWamide and ELH) are characterized with bivalve-specific features. Thirteen potentially novel neuropeptides were identified, including 10 that may also exist in other protostomes, and 3 (GNamide, LRYamide, and Vamide) that may be scallop specific. In addition, we found neuropeptides potentially related to scallop shell growth and eye functioning. This study represents the first comprehensive identification of neuropeptides in scallop, and would contribute to a complete understanding on the roles of various neuropeptides in endocrine regulation in bivalve molluscs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meiwei Zhang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
| | - Yangfan Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
| | - Yangping Li
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
| | - Wanru Li
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
| | - Ruojiao Li
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
| | - Xinran Xie
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China
| | - Shi Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China.,Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, China
| | - Xiaoli Hu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China.,Laboratory for Marine Fisheries Science and Food Production Processes, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, China
| | - Lingling Zhang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China.,Laboratory for Marine Fisheries Science and Food Production Processes, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, China
| | - Zhenmin Bao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China.,Laboratory for Marine Fisheries Science and Food Production Processes, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, China
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Ahn SJ, Martin R, Rao S, Choi MY. Neuropeptides predicted from the transcriptome analysis of the gray garden slug Deroceras reticulatum. Peptides 2017; 93:51-65. [PMID: 28502716 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2017.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2017] [Revised: 05/04/2017] [Accepted: 05/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The gray garden slug, Deroceras reticulatum (Gastropoda: Pulmonata), is one of the most common terrestrial molluscs. Research for this slug has focused mainly on its ecology, biology, and management due to the severe damage it causes on a wide range of vegetables and field crops. However, little is known about neuropeptides and hormonal signalings. This study, therefore, aimed to establish the transcriptome of D. reticulatum and to identify a comprehensive repertoire of neuropeptides in this slug. Illumina high-throughput sequencing of the whole body transcriptome of D. reticulatum generated a total of 5.9 billion raw paired-end reads. De novo assembly by Trinity resulted in 143,575 transcripts and further filtration selected 120,553 unigenes. Gene Ontology (GO) terms were assigned to 30,588 unigenes, composed of biological processes (36.9%), cellular components (30.2%) and molecular functions (32.9%). Functional annotation by BLASTx revealed 39,987 unigenes with hits, which were further categorized into important functional groups based on sequence abundance. Neuropeptides, ion channels, ribosomal proteins, G protein-coupled receptors, detoxification, immunity and cytoskeleton-related sequences were dominant among the transcripts. BLAST searches and PCR amplification were used to identify 65 putative neuropeptide precursor genes from the D. reticulatum transcriptome, which include achatin, AKH, allatostatin A, B and C, allatotropin, APGWamide, CCAP, cerebrin, conopressin, cysteine-knot protein hormones (bursicon alpha/beta and GPA2/GPB5), elevenin, FCAP, FFamide, FVamide (enterin, fulicin, MIP and PRQFVamide), GGNG, GnRH, insulin, NdWFamide, NKY, PKYMDT, PRXamide (myomodulin, pleurin and sCAP), RFamide (CCK/SK, FMRFamide, FxRIamide, LFRFamide, luqin and NPF), and tachykinin. Over 330 putative peptides were encoded by these precursors. Comparative analysis among different molluscan species clearly revealed that, while D. reticulatum neuropeptide sequences are conserved in Mollusca, there are also some unique features distinct from other members of this species. This is the first transcriptome-wide report of neuropeptides in terrestrial slugs. Our results provide comprehensive transcriptome data of the gray garden slug, with a more detailed focus on the rich repertoire of putative neuropeptide sequences, laying the foundation for molecular studies in this terrestrial slug pest.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seung-Joon Ahn
- USDA-ARS Horticultural Crops Research Unit,3420 NW Orchard Avenue, Corvallis, OR, 97330, USA; Department of Crop and Soil Science, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA
| | - Ruth Martin
- USDA-ARS Forage Seed and Cereal Research Unit, 3450 SW Campus Way, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA
| | - Sujaya Rao
- Department of Crop and Soil Science, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA
| | - Man-Yeon Choi
- USDA-ARS Horticultural Crops Research Unit,3420 NW Orchard Avenue, Corvallis, OR, 97330, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Cao ZH, Sun LL, Chi CF, Liu HH, Zhou LQ, Lv ZM, Wu CW. Molecular cloning, expression analysis and cellular localization of an LFRFamide gene in the cuttlefish Sepiella japonica. Peptides 2016; 80:40-47. [PMID: 26494614 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2015.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2015] [Revised: 10/10/2015] [Accepted: 10/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Neuropeptides are important regulators of physiological processes in metazoans, such as feeding, reproduction, and heart activities. In this study, an LFRFamide gene was identified from the cuttlefish Sepiella japonica (designated as SjLFRFamide). The full-length sequence of SjLFRFamide cDNA has 841bp, and the open reading frame contains 567bp encoding 188 amino acids, which shared high similarity with precursor SOFaRP2 from Sepia officinalis. The deduced SjLFRFamdie precursor protein contains a signal peptide and four different FLPs (FMRFamide-like peptides): one pentapeptide (TIFRFamide), two hexapeptides (NSLFRFamide and GNLFRFamide) and one heptapeptide (PHTPFRFamide). Multiple sequence alignment showed that SjLFRFamide contains rather conserved mature peptides, which all ended in FRF. The phylogenetic analysis suggests that SjLFRFamide belongs to the LFRFamide subfamily. The tissue distribution analysis through quantitative real-time PCR method showed that SjLFRFamide mRNA is significantly expressed in the brain, and slight trace are detected in female nidamental gland and accessory nidamental gland. In situ hybridization assay of the brain indicated that SjLFRFamide is transcribed in several different functional lobes, suggesting SjLFRFamide might associate with multiple physiological regulations, such as feeding, chromatophore regulation and reproduction. This is the first study describing LFRFamide in S. japonica, which might have great importance for cuttlefish artificial breeding.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zi-Hao Cao
- National Engineering Research Center of Marine Facilities for Aquaculture, School of Marine Science and Technology, Zhejiang Ocean University, Zhoushan 316022, PR China
| | - Lian-Lian Sun
- National Engineering Research Center of Marine Facilities for Aquaculture, School of Marine Science and Technology, Zhejiang Ocean University, Zhoushan 316022, PR China
| | - Chang-Feng Chi
- National Engineering Research Center of Marine Facilities for Aquaculture, School of Marine Science and Technology, Zhejiang Ocean University, Zhoushan 316022, PR China.
| | - Hui-Hui Liu
- National Engineering Research Center of Marine Facilities for Aquaculture, School of Marine Science and Technology, Zhejiang Ocean University, Zhoushan 316022, PR China
| | - Li-Qing Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Sustainable Development of Marine Fisheries, Minister of Agriculture, Yellow Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Science, Qingdao 266071, PR China
| | - Zhen-Ming Lv
- National Engineering Research Center of Marine Facilities for Aquaculture, School of Marine Science and Technology, Zhejiang Ocean University, Zhoushan 316022, PR China
| | - Chang-Wen Wu
- National Engineering Research Center of Marine Facilities for Aquaculture, School of Marine Science and Technology, Zhejiang Ocean University, Zhoushan 316022, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Zatylny-Gaudin C, Cornet V, Leduc A, Zanuttini B, Corre E, Le Corguillé G, Bernay B, Garderes J, Kraut A, Couté Y, Henry J. Neuropeptidome of the Cephalopod Sepia officinalis: Identification, Tissue Mapping, and Expression Pattern of Neuropeptides and Neurohormones during Egg Laying. J Proteome Res 2015; 15:48-67. [PMID: 26632866 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.5b00463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Cephalopods exhibit a wide variety of behaviors such as prey capture, communication, camouflage, and reproduction thanks to a complex central nervous system (CNS) divided into several functional lobes that express a wide range of neuropeptides involved in the modulation of behaviors and physiological mechanisms associated with the main stages of their life cycle. This work focuses on the neuropeptidome expressed during egg-laying through de novo construction of the CNS transcriptome using an RNAseq approach (Illumina sequencing). Then, we completed the in silico analysis of the transcriptome by characterizing and tissue-mapping neuropeptides by mass spectrometry. To identify neuropeptides involved in the egg-laying process, we determined (1) the neuropeptide contents of the neurohemal area, hemolymph (blood), and nerve endings in mature females and (2) the expression levels of these peptides. Among the 38 neuropeptide families identified from 55 transcripts, 30 were described for the first time in Sepia officinalis, 5 were described for the first time in the animal kingdom, and 14 were strongly overexpressed in egg-laying females as compared with mature males. Mass spectrometry screening of hemolymph and nerve ending contents allowed us to clarify the status of many neuropeptides, that is, to determine whether they were neuromodulators or neurohormones.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Céline Zatylny-Gaudin
- Normandy University , F-14032 Caen, France.,Normandy University , UMR BOREA MNHN, UPMC, UCBN, CNRS-7208, IRD-207, F-14032 Caen, France
| | - Valérie Cornet
- Normandy University , F-14032 Caen, France.,Normandy University , UMR BOREA MNHN, UPMC, UCBN, CNRS-7208, IRD-207, F-14032 Caen, France
| | - Alexandre Leduc
- Normandy University , F-14032 Caen, France.,Normandy University , UMR BOREA MNHN, UPMC, UCBN, CNRS-7208, IRD-207, F-14032 Caen, France
| | - Bruno Zanuttini
- Normandy University , GREYC, UMR CNRS 6072, F-14032 Caen, France
| | - Erwan Corre
- UPMC, CNRS, FR2424, ABiMS, Station Biologique, 29680 Roscoff, France
| | | | - Benoît Bernay
- Normandy University , F-14032 Caen, France.,Post Genomic Platform PROTEOGEN, Normandy University , SF ICORE 4206, F-14032 Caen, France
| | - Johan Garderes
- Center for Marine Research, "Ruder Boskovic" Institute , HR-52210 Rovinj, Croatia
| | - Alexandra Kraut
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes , iRTSV-BGE, F-38000 Grenoble, France.,CEA, iRTSV-BGE, F-38000 Grenoble, France.,INSERM, BGE, F-38000 Grenoble, France
| | - Yohan Couté
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes , iRTSV-BGE, F-38000 Grenoble, France.,CEA, iRTSV-BGE, F-38000 Grenoble, France.,INSERM, BGE, F-38000 Grenoble, France
| | - Joël Henry
- Normandy University , F-14032 Caen, France.,Normandy University , UMR BOREA MNHN, UPMC, UCBN, CNRS-7208, IRD-207, F-14032 Caen, France.,Post Genomic Platform PROTEOGEN, Normandy University , SF ICORE 4206, F-14032 Caen, France
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Large-Scale Combinatorial Deorphanization of Platynereis Neuropeptide GPCRs. Cell Rep 2015; 12:684-93. [DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2015.06.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2015] [Revised: 05/27/2015] [Accepted: 06/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
|
21
|
Horák P, Mikeš L, Lichtenbergová L, Skála V, Soldánová M, Brant SV. Avian schistosomes and outbreaks of cercarial dermatitis. Clin Microbiol Rev 2015; 28:165-90. [PMID: 25567226 PMCID: PMC4284296 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00043-14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Cercarial dermatitis (swimmer's itch) is a condition caused by infective larvae (cercariae) of a species-rich group of mammalian and avian schistosomes. Over the last decade, it has been reported in areas that previously had few or no cases of dermatitis and is thus considered an emerging disease. It is obvious that avian schistosomes are responsible for the majority of reported dermatitis outbreaks around the world, and thus they are the primary focus of this review. Although they infect humans, they do not mature and usually die in the skin. Experimental infections of avian schistosomes in mice show that in previously exposed hosts, there is a strong skin immune reaction that kills the schistosome. However, penetration of larvae into naive mice can result in temporary migration from the skin. This is of particular interest because the worms are able to migrate to different organs, for example, the lungs in the case of visceral schistosomes and the central nervous system in the case of nasal schistosomes. The risk of such migration and accompanying disorders needs to be clarified for humans and animals of interest (e.g., dogs). Herein we compiled the most comprehensive review of the diversity, immunology, and epidemiology of avian schistosomes causing cercarial dermatitis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Petr Horák
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Libor Mikeš
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Lucie Lichtenbergová
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Vladimír Skála
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Miroslava Soldánová
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Sara Vanessa Brant
- Museum Southwestern Biology, Department of Biology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Stewart MJ, Favrel P, Rotgans BA, Wang T, Zhao M, Sohail M, O'Connor WA, Elizur A, Henry J, Cummins SF. Neuropeptides encoded by the genomes of the Akoya pearl oyster Pinctata fucata and Pacific oyster Crassostrea gigas: a bioinformatic and peptidomic survey. BMC Genomics 2014; 15:840. [PMID: 25277059 PMCID: PMC4200219 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2164-15-840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2014] [Accepted: 09/03/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oysters impart significant socio-ecological benefits from primary production of food supply, to estuarine ecosystems via reduction of water column nutrients, plankton and seston biomass. Little though is known at the molecular level of what genes are responsible for how oysters reproduce, filter nutrients, survive stressful physiological events and form reef communities. Neuropeptides represent a diverse class of chemical messengers, instrumental in orchestrating these complex physiological events in other species. RESULTS By a combination of in silico data mining and peptide analysis of ganglia, 74 putative neuropeptide genes were identified from genome and transcriptome databases of the Akoya pearl oyster, Pinctata fucata and the Pacific oyster, Crassostrea gigas, encoding precursors for over 300 predicted bioactive peptide products, including three newly identified neuropeptide precursors PFGx8amide, RxIamide and Wx3Yamide. Our findings also include a gene for the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and two egg-laying hormones (ELH) which were identified from both oysters. Multiple sequence alignments and phylogenetic analysis supports similar global organization of these mature peptides. Computer-based peptide modeling of the molecular tertiary structures of ELH highlights the structural homologies within ELH family, which may facilitate ELH activity leading to the release of gametes. CONCLUSION Our analysis demonstrates that oysters possess conserved molluscan neuropeptide domains and overall precursor organization whilst highlighting many previously unrecognized bivalve idiosyncrasies. This genomic analysis provides a solid foundation from which further studies aimed at the functional characterization of these molluscan neuropeptides can be conducted to further stimulate advances in understanding the ecology and cultivation of oysters.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Scott F Cummins
- School of Science and Education, Genecology Research Center, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore DC, Queensland 4558, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Bigot L, Beets I, Dubos MP, Boudry P, Schoofs L, Favrel P. Functional characterization of a short neuropeptide F-related receptor in a lophotrochozoan, the mollusk Crassostrea gigas. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 217:2974-82. [PMID: 24948637 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.104067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Members of the short neuropeptide F (sNPF) family of peptides and their cognate receptors play key roles in a variety of physiological processes in arthropods. In silico screening of GigasDatabase, a specific expressed sequence tag database from the Pacific oyster Crassostrea gigas, resulted in the identification of a receptor (Cg-sNPFR-like) phylogenetically closely related to sNPF receptors (sNPFRs) of insects. A reverse endocrinology approach was undertaken to identify the peptide ligand(s) of this orphan receptor. Though structurally distinct from insect sNPFs, three RFamide peptides derived from the same precursor, i.e. GSLFRFamide, SSLFRFamide and GALFRFamide, specifically activate the receptor in a dose-dependent manner, with respective EC50 values (half-maximal effective concentrations) of 1.1, 2.1 and 4.1 μmol l(-1). We found that both Cg-sNPFR-like receptor and LFRFamide encoding transcripts are expressed in the oyster central nervous system and in other tissues as well, albeit at lower levels. Mass spectrometry analysis confirmed the wide distribution of LFRFamide mature peptides in several central and peripheral tissues. The Cg-sNPFR-like receptor was more abundantly expressed in ganglia of females than of males, and upregulated in starved oysters. In the gonad area, highest receptor gene expression occurred at the start of gametogenesis, when storage activity is maximal. Our results suggest that signaling of LFRFamide peptides through the Cg-sNPFR-like receptor might play a role in the coordination of nutrition, energy storage and metabolism in C. gigas, possibly by promoting storage at the expense of reproduction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laetitia Bigot
- Université de Caen Basse-Normandie, Biologie des Organismes Aquatiques et Ecosystèmes (BOREA), CS 14032, 14032 Caen Cedex 05, France CNRS UMR 7208, BOREA, CS 14032, 14032 Caen Cedex 05, France
| | - Isabel Beets
- Department of Biology, Functional Genomics and Proteomics Group, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Marie-Pierre Dubos
- Université de Caen Basse-Normandie, Biologie des Organismes Aquatiques et Ecosystèmes (BOREA), CS 14032, 14032 Caen Cedex 05, France CNRS UMR 7208, BOREA, CS 14032, 14032 Caen Cedex 05, France
| | - Pierre Boudry
- Ifremer, Unité Physiologie Fonctionnelle des Organismes Marins, UMR 6539 LEMAR, 29280 Plouzané, France
| | - Liliane Schoofs
- Department of Biology, Functional Genomics and Proteomics Group, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Pascal Favrel
- Université de Caen Basse-Normandie, Biologie des Organismes Aquatiques et Ecosystèmes (BOREA), CS 14032, 14032 Caen Cedex 05, France CNRS UMR 7208, BOREA, CS 14032, 14032 Caen Cedex 05, France
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Zatylny-Gaudin C, Favrel P. Diversity of the RFamide Peptide Family in Mollusks. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2014; 5:178. [PMID: 25386166 PMCID: PMC4208409 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2014.00178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2014] [Accepted: 10/06/2014] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the initial characterization of the cardioexcitatory peptide FMRFamide in the bivalve mollusk Macrocallista nimbosa, a great number of FMRFamide-like peptides (FLPs) have been identified in mollusks. FLPs were initially isolated and molecularly characterized in model mollusks using biochemical methods. The development of recombinant technologies and, more recently, of genomics has boosted knowledge on their diversity in various mollusk classes. Today, mollusk FLPs represent approximately 75 distinct RFamide peptides that appear to result from the expression of only five genes: the FMRFamide-related peptide gene, the LFRFamide gene, the luqin gene, the neuropeptide F gene, and the cholecystokinin/sulfakinin gene. FLPs display a complex spatiotemporal pattern of expression in the central and peripheral nervous system. Working as neurotransmitters, neuromodulators, or neurohormones, FLPs are involved in the control of a great variety of biological and physiological processes including cardiovascular regulation, osmoregulation, reproduction, digestion, and feeding behavior. From an evolutionary viewpoint, the major challenge will then logically concern the elucidation of the FLP repertoire of orphan mollusk classes and the way they are functionally related. In this respect, deciphering FLP signaling pathways by characterizing the specific receptors these peptides bind remains another exciting objective.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Celine Zatylny-Gaudin
- Université de Caen Basse-Normandie, Normandie Université, Biology of Aquatic Organisms and Ecosystems (BOREA), Caen, France
- Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle, Sorbonne Universités, BOREA, Paris, France
- Université Pierre et Marie Curie, BOREA, Paris, France
- UMR 7208 Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, BOREA, Paris, France
- IRD 207, L’Institut de recherche pour le développement, BOREA, Paris, France
| | - Pascal Favrel
- Université de Caen Basse-Normandie, Normandie Université, Biology of Aquatic Organisms and Ecosystems (BOREA), Caen, France
- Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle, Sorbonne Universités, BOREA, Paris, France
- Université Pierre et Marie Curie, BOREA, Paris, France
- UMR 7208 Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, BOREA, Paris, France
- IRD 207, L’Institut de recherche pour le développement, BOREA, Paris, France
- *Correspondence: Pascal Favrel, Université de Caen Basse-Normandie, Esplanade de la Paix, CS 14032, Caen Cedex 5 14032, France e-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Zhang Z, Tublitz NJ. Expression of the SOFaRP2 gene in the central nervous system of the adult cuttlefish Sepia officinalis. Neuropeptides 2013; 47:149-55. [PMID: 23465584 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2013.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2012] [Revised: 01/19/2013] [Accepted: 01/29/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
FMRFamide-related Peptides (FaRPs) are involved in a variety of physiological processes, including reproduction, feeding, development, body patterning and osmoregulation in vertebrates and invertebrates. Here we investigate the expression pattern of cuttlefish Sepia officinalis FaRP2 gene in the brain by in situ hybridization. The SOFaRP2 gene was found to be expressed most intensively in the posterior chromatophore lobe, vasomotor lobe and subvertical lobe. In addition, positive staining was also found in the fin lobe, brachial lobe, anterior chromatophore lobe, anterior, dorsal and lateral basal lobes, inferior and superior frontal lobes, and optic lobe. The expression pattern of SOFaRP2 suggests its involvement in chromatophore regulation, feeding behavior, and learning and memory.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhuobin Zhang
- Department of Biology, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR 97403, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Total protein and carbohydrate content and protease and disaccharidase activities in the hemolymph of Lymnaea stagnalis naturally infected with digenean larvae. Biologia (Bratisl) 2013. [DOI: 10.2478/s11756-013-0153-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
|
27
|
Palasoon R, Panasophonkul S, Sretarugsa P, Hanna P, Sobhon P, Chavadej J. The distribution of APGWamide and RFamides in the central nervous system and ovary of the giant freshwater prawn, Macrobrachium rosenbergii. INVERTEBRATE NEUROSCIENCE 2011; 11:29-42. [PMID: 21476046 DOI: 10.1007/s10158-011-0115-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2010] [Accepted: 03/23/2011] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Immunohistochemistry was used to identify the distribution of both APGWamide-like and RFamide-like peptides in the central nervous system (CNS) and ovary of the mature female giant freshwater prawn, Macrobrachium rosenbergii. APGWamide-like immunoreactivity (ALP-ir) was found only within the sinus gland (SG) of the eyestalk, in small- and medium-sized neurons of cluster 4, as well as their varicosed axons. RFamide-like immunoreactivity (RF-ir) was detected in neurons of all neuronal clusters of the eyestalk and CNS, except clusters 1 and 5 of the eyestalk, and dorsal clusters of the subesophageal, thoracic, and abdominal ganglia. The RF-ir was also found in all neuropils of the CNS and SG, except the lamina ganglionaris. These immunohistochemical locations of the APGWamide-like and RF-like peptides in the eyestalk indicate that these neuropeptides could modulate the release of the neurohormones in the sinus gland. The presence of RFamide-like peptides in the thoracic and abdominal ganglia suggests that it may act as a neurotransmitter which controls muscular contractions. In the ovary, RF-ir was found predominantly in late previtellogenic and early vitellogenic oocytes, and to a lesser degree in late vitellogenic oocytes. These RFs may be involved with oocyte development, but may also act with other neurohormones and/or neurotransmitters within the oocyte in an autocrine or paracrine manner.
Collapse
|
28
|
Koene JM. Neuro-endocrine control of reproduction in hermaphroditic freshwater snails: mechanisms and evolution. Front Behav Neurosci 2010; 4:167. [PMID: 21088700 PMCID: PMC2981420 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2010.00167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2010] [Accepted: 09/19/2010] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Invertebrates are used extensively as model species to investigate neuro-endocrine processes regulating behaviors, and many of these processes may be extrapolated to vertebrates. However, when it comes to reproductive processes, many of these model species differ notably in their mode of reproduction. A point in case are simultaneously hermaphroditic molluscs. In this review I aim to achieve two things. On the one hand, I provide a comprehensive overview of the neuro-endocrine control of male and female reproductive processes in freshwater snails. Even though the focus will necessarily be on Lymnaea stagnalis, since this is the best-studied species in this respect, extensions to other species are made wherever possible. On the other hand, I will place these findings in the actual context of the whole animal, after all these are simultaneous hermaphrodites. By considering the hermaphroditic situation, I uncover a numbers of possible links between the regulation of the two reproductive systems that are present within this animal, and suggest a few possible mechanisms via which this animal can effectively switch between the two sexual roles in the flexible way that it does. Evidently, this opens up a number of new research questions and areas that explicitly integrate knowledge about behavioral decisions (e.g., mating, insemination, egg laying) and sexual selection processes (e.g., mate choice, sperm allocation) with the actual underlying neuronal and endocrine mechanisms required for these processes to act and function effectively.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joris M Koene
- Animal Ecology, Faculty of Earth and Life Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Morishita F, Furukawa Y, Matsushima O, Minakata H. Regulatory actions of neuropeptides and peptide hormones on the reproduction of molluscsThe present review is one of a series of occasional review articles that have been invited by the Editors and will feature the broad range of disciplines and expertise represented in our Editorial Advisory Board. CAN J ZOOL 2010. [DOI: 10.1139/z10-041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Reproductive success of individual animals is essential for the survival of any species. Molluscs have adapted to a wide variety of environments (freshwater, brackish water, seawater, and terrestrial habits) and have evolved unique tactics for reproduction. Both of these features attract the academic interests of scientists. Because neuropeptides and peptide hormones play critical roles in neural and neurohormonal regulation of physiological functions and behaviors in this animal group, the regulatory actions of these messengers in reproduction have been extensively investigated. In this review, we will briefly summarize how peptidergic messengers are involved in various aspects of reproduction, using some peptides such as egg-laying hormone, caudo-dorsal cell hormone, APGWamide, and gonadotropin-releasing hormone as typical examples.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fumihiro Morishita
- Department of Biological Science, Graduate School of Science, Hiroshima University, 1-3-1 Kagamiyama, Higashi-Hiroshima, Hiroshima 739-8526, Japan
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Graduate School of Integrated Arts and Sciences, Hiroshima University, 1-7-1 Kagamiyama, Higashi-Hiroshima, Hiroshima 739-8521, Japan
- Department of Global Environment Studies, Faculty of Environmental Studies, Hiroshima Institute of Technology, 2-1-1 Miyake, Saeki-ku, Hiroshima 731-5193, Japan
- Suntory Institute for Bioorganic Research, 1-1-1 Wakayamadai, Shimamoto, Mishima, Osaka 618-8503, Japan
| | - Yasuo Furukawa
- Department of Biological Science, Graduate School of Science, Hiroshima University, 1-3-1 Kagamiyama, Higashi-Hiroshima, Hiroshima 739-8526, Japan
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Graduate School of Integrated Arts and Sciences, Hiroshima University, 1-7-1 Kagamiyama, Higashi-Hiroshima, Hiroshima 739-8521, Japan
- Department of Global Environment Studies, Faculty of Environmental Studies, Hiroshima Institute of Technology, 2-1-1 Miyake, Saeki-ku, Hiroshima 731-5193, Japan
- Suntory Institute for Bioorganic Research, 1-1-1 Wakayamadai, Shimamoto, Mishima, Osaka 618-8503, Japan
| | - Osamu Matsushima
- Department of Biological Science, Graduate School of Science, Hiroshima University, 1-3-1 Kagamiyama, Higashi-Hiroshima, Hiroshima 739-8526, Japan
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Graduate School of Integrated Arts and Sciences, Hiroshima University, 1-7-1 Kagamiyama, Higashi-Hiroshima, Hiroshima 739-8521, Japan
- Department of Global Environment Studies, Faculty of Environmental Studies, Hiroshima Institute of Technology, 2-1-1 Miyake, Saeki-ku, Hiroshima 731-5193, Japan
- Suntory Institute for Bioorganic Research, 1-1-1 Wakayamadai, Shimamoto, Mishima, Osaka 618-8503, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Minakata
- Department of Biological Science, Graduate School of Science, Hiroshima University, 1-3-1 Kagamiyama, Higashi-Hiroshima, Hiroshima 739-8526, Japan
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Graduate School of Integrated Arts and Sciences, Hiroshima University, 1-7-1 Kagamiyama, Higashi-Hiroshima, Hiroshima 739-8521, Japan
- Department of Global Environment Studies, Faculty of Environmental Studies, Hiroshima Institute of Technology, 2-1-1 Miyake, Saeki-ku, Hiroshima 731-5193, Japan
- Suntory Institute for Bioorganic Research, 1-1-1 Wakayamadai, Shimamoto, Mishima, Osaka 618-8503, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Veenstra JA. Neurohormones and neuropeptides encoded by the genome of Lottia gigantea, with reference to other mollusks and insects. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2010; 167:86-103. [PMID: 20171220 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2010.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 161] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2009] [Revised: 02/04/2010] [Accepted: 02/12/2010] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The Lottia gigantea genome was prospected for the presence of genes coding neuropeptides and neurohormones. Four genes code insulin-related peptides: two genes code molluscan insulin-like growth hormones, one gene an insulin very similar to vertebrate insulin, and the fourth a peptide related to drosophila insulin-like peptide 7. Four other genes encode the cysteine-knot proteins GPA2/GPB5 and bursicon/parabursicon. Another 37 genes code for precursors of the following neuropeptides: achatin, APGWamide, allatostatin C, allatotropin, buccalin (perhaps an allatostatin A homolog), cerebrin, CCAP, conopressin, elevenin (the predicted neuropeptide made by abdominal neuron 11 in Aplysia), egg laying hormone (two genes), enterin, feeding circuit activating neuropeptide (FCAP), FFamide, FMRFamide, GGNG, a GnRH-like peptide, the newly discovered LASGLVamide, LFRFamide, LFRYamide, LRNFVamide, luqin, lymnokinin, myomodulin (two genes), the newly discovered NKY, NPY, pedal peptide (three genes), PKYMDT, pleurin, PXFVamide, small cardioactive peptides, tachykinins (two genes) and WWamide (an allatostatin B homolog). One gene was found to encode FWISamide, while about 20 closely related genes were found to encode WWFamide. These small neuropeptides appear homologous to the NdWFamide, which contains d-Trp; these genes are similar to the Aplysia gene encoding NWFamide. Some of these peptides had not been previously identified from mollusks, such as the predicted hormones similar to Drosophila and vertebrate insulins, bursicon, the putative proctolin homolog PKYMDT and allatostatin C. Together with neuropeptides which are likely homologs of other insect neuropeptides, such as cerebrin and WWamide, this shows that despite significant differences the molluscan and arthropod neuropeptidomes are more similar than generally recognized.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jan A Veenstra
- Université de Bordeaux, CNRS, CNIC UMR 5228, 33400 Talence, France.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Distinct mechanisms produce functionally complementary actions of neuropeptides that are structurally related but derived from different precursors. J Neurosci 2010; 30:131-47. [PMID: 20053896 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.3282-09.2010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Many bioactive neuropeptides containing RFamide at their C terminus have been described in both invertebrates and vertebrates. To obtain insight into the functional logic of RFamide signaling, we investigate it here in the feeding system of Aplysia. We focus on the expression, localization, and actions of two families of RFamide peptides, the FRFamides and FMRFamide, in the central neuronal circuitry and the peripheral musculature that generate the feeding movements. We describe the cloning of the FRFamide precursor protein and show that the FRFamides and FMRFamide are derived from different precursors. We map the expression of the FRFamide and FMRFamide precursors in the feeding circuitry using in situ hybridization and immunostaining and confirm proteolytic processing of the FRFamide precursor by mass spectrometry. We show that the two precursors are expressed in different populations of sensory neurons in the feeding system. In a representative feeding muscle, we demonstrate the presence of both FRFamides and FMRFamide and their release, probably from the processes of the sensory neurons in the muscle. Both centrally and in the periphery, the FRFamides and FMRFamide act in distinct ways, apparently through distinct mechanisms, and nevertheless, from an overall functional perspective, their actions are complementary. Together, the FRFamides and FMRFamide convert feeding motor programs from ingestive to egestive and depress feeding muscle contractions. We conclude that these structurally related peptides, although derived from different precursors, expressed in different neurons, and acting through different mechanisms, remain related to each other in the functional roles that they play in the system.
Collapse
|
32
|
Zatylny-Gaudin C, Bernay B, Zanuttini B, Leprince J, Vaudry H, Henry J. Characterization of a novel LFRFamide neuropeptide in the cephalopod Sepia officinalis. Peptides 2010; 31:207-14. [PMID: 19954756 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2009.11.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2009] [Revised: 11/24/2009] [Accepted: 11/24/2009] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
From a single LC-MS/MS analysis, a new C-terminally extended RFamide neuropeptide was characterized in Sepia officinalis. The experimental strategy was based on the specific neutral loss associated with RFamide breakdown. Mass losses of 17 Da (C-terminally amide) and 320 Da (RFamide) have been observed for three known peaks of m/z 581.7 (FLRFamide), 599.8 (FMRFamide), 1096.3 (ALSGDAFLRFamide) and one unknown of m/z 752.8. The primary sequence of the peptide of m/z 752.8 was GNLFRFamide. MS/MS analyses revealed that this novel neuropeptide, called sepFRF1, is largely distributed in the central nervous system of cuttlefish of both sexes. Probably transported in the visceral nerve from the subesophageal mass (the peptide was not detected in the hemolymph), this neuropeptide targeted the rectum in agreement with its peripheral distribution. From concentrations as low as 10(-9)M, sepFRF1 increased the frequency, tonus and amplitude of rectal contractions. SepFRF1 is the first RFamide peptide identified in Sepia officinalis that is not derived from the FaRPs precursor. SepFRF1 could belong to a RFamide subfamily identified in gastropods and may be involved in feeding behavior.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Céline Zatylny-Gaudin
- UMR 100 IFREMER Physiologie et Ecophysiologie des Mollusques Marins, IFR ICORE 146, University of Caen, esplanade de la Paix, 14032 Caen cedex, Calvados, France
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
McVeigh P, Mair GR, Atkinson L, Ladurner P, Zamanian M, Novozhilova E, Marks NJ, Day TA, Maule AG. Discovery of multiple neuropeptide families in the phylum Platyhelminthes. Int J Parasitol 2009; 39:1243-52. [PMID: 19361512 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2009.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2009] [Revised: 02/20/2009] [Accepted: 03/11/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Available evidence shows that short amidated neuropeptides are widespread and have important functions within the nervous systems of all flatworms (phylum Platyhelminthes) examined, and could therefore represent a starting point for new lead drug compounds with which to combat parasitic helminth infections. However, only a handful of these peptides have been characterised, the rigorous exploration of the flatworm peptide signalling repertoire having been hindered by the dearth of flatworm genomic data. Through searches of both expressed sequence tags and genomic resources using the basic local alignment search tool (BLAST), we describe 96 neuropeptides on 60 precursors from 10 flatworm species. Most of these (51 predicted peptides on 14 precursors) are novel and are apparently restricted to flatworms; the remainder comprise nine recognised peptide families including FMRFamide-like (FLPs), neuropeptide F (NPF)-like, myomodulin-like, buccalin-like and neuropeptide FF (NPFF)-like peptides; notably, the latter have only previously been reported in vertebrates. Selected peptides were localised immunocytochemically to the Schistosoma mansoni nervous system. We also describe several novel flatworm NPFs with structural features characteristic of the vertebrate neuropeptide Y (NPY) superfamily, previously unreported characteristics which support the common ancestry of flatworm NPFs with the NPY-superfamily. Our dataset provides a springboard for investigation of the functional biology and therapeutic potential of neuropeptides in flatworms, simultaneously launching flatworm neurobiology into the post-genomic era.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paul McVeigh
- Parasitology, School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Characterizing intercellular signaling peptides in drug addiction. Neuropharmacology 2008; 56 Suppl 1:196-204. [PMID: 18722391 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2008.07.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2008] [Revised: 07/23/2008] [Accepted: 07/28/2008] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Intercellular signaling peptides (SPs) coordinate the activity of cells and influence organism behavior. SPs, a chemically and structurally diverse group of compounds responsible for transferring information between neurons, are broadly involved in neural plasticity, learning and memory, as well as in drug addiction phenomena. Historically, SP discovery and characterization has tracked advances in measurement capabilities. Today, a suite of analytical technologies is available to investigate individual SPs, as well as entire intercellular signaling complements, in samples ranging from individual cells to entire organisms. Immunochemistry and in situ hybridization are commonly used for following preselected SPs. Discovery-type investigations targeting the transcriptome and proteome are accomplished using high-throughput characterization technologies such as microarrays and mass spectrometry. By integrating directed approaches with discovery approaches, multiplatform studies fill critical gaps in our knowledge of drug-induced alterations in intercellular signaling. Throughout the past 35 years, the National Institute on Drug Abuse has made significant resources available to scientists that study the mechanisms of drug addiction. The roles of SPs in the addiction process are highlighted, as are the analytical approaches used to detect and characterize them.
Collapse
|
35
|
Aguilar MB, Luna-Ramírez KS, Echeverría D, Falcón A, Olivera BM, Heimer de la Cotera EP, Maillo M. Conorfamide-Sr2, a gamma-carboxyglutamate-containing FMRFamide-related peptide from the venom of Conus spurius with activity in mice and mollusks. Peptides 2008; 29:186-95. [PMID: 18201803 PMCID: PMC2290853 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2007.09.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2007] [Accepted: 09/05/2007] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
A novel peptide, conorfamide-Sr2 (CNF-Sr2), was purified from the venom extract of Conus spurius, collected in the Caribbean Sea off the Yucatan Peninsula. Its primary structure was determined by automated Edman degradation and amino acid analysis, and confirmed by electrospray ionization mass spectrometry. Conorfamide-Sr2 contains 12 amino acids and no Cys residues, and it is only the second FMRFamide-related peptide isolated from a venom. Its primary structure GPM gammaDPLgammaIIRI-nh2, (gamma, gamma-carboxyglutamate; -nh2, amidated C-terminus; calculated monoisotopic mass, 1468.72Da; experimental monoisotopic mass, 1468.70Da) shows two features that are unusual among FMRFamide-related peptides (FaRPs, also known as RFamide peptides), namely the novel presence of gamma-carboxyglutamate, and a rather uncommon C-terminal residue, Ile. CNF-Sr2 exhibits paralytic activity in the limpet Patella opea and causes hyperactivity in the freshwater snail Pomacea paludosa and in the mouse. The sequence similarities of CNF-Sr2 with FaRPs from marine and freshwater mollusks and mice might explain its biological effects in these organisms. It also resembles FaRPs from polychaetes (the prey of C. spurius), which suggests a natural biological role. Based on these similarities, CNF-Sr2 might interact with receptors of these three distinct types of FaRPs, G-protein-coupled receptors, Na+ channels activated by FMRFamide (FaNaCs), and acid-sensing ion channels (ASICs). The biological activities of CNF-Sr2 in mollusks and mice make it a potential tool to study molecular targets in these and other organisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manuel B Aguilar
- Laboratorio de Neurofarmacología Marina, Departamento de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Campus Juriquilla, Querétaro 76230, Mexico.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Kriegsfeld LJ, Mei DF, Bentley GE, Ubuka T, Mason AO, Inoue K, Ukena K, Tsutsui K, Silver R. Identification and characterization of a gonadotropin-inhibitory system in the brains of mammals. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2006; 103:2410-5. [PMID: 16467147 PMCID: PMC1413747 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0511003103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 438] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Successful reproduction requires maintenance of the reproductive axis within fine operating limits through negative feedback actions of sex steroids. Despite the importance of this homeostatic process, our understanding of the neural loci, pathways, and neurochemicals responsible remain incomplete. Here, we reveal a neuropeptidergic pathway that directly links gonadal steroid actions to regulation of the reproductive system. An RFamide (Arg-Phe-NH2) peptide that inhibits gonadotropin release from quail pituitary was recently identified and named gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone (GnIH). Birds are known to have specialized adaptations associated with gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) regulation to optimize reproduction (e.g., encephalic photoreceptors), and the existence of a hypothalamic peptide inhibiting gonadotropins may or may not be another such specialization. To determine whether GnIH serves as a signaling pathway for sex steroid regulation of the reproductive axis, we used immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization to characterize the distribution and functional role of this peptide in hamsters, rats, and mice. GnIH-immunoreactive (GnIH-ir) cell bodies are clustered in the mediobasal hypothalamus with pronounced projections and terminals throughout the CNS. In vivo GnIH administration rapidly inhibits luteinizing hormone secretion. Additionally, GnIH-ir neurons form close appositions with GnRH cells, suggesting a direct means of GnRH modulation. Finally, GnIH-ir cells express estrogen receptor-alpha and exhibit robust immediate early gene expression after gonadal hormone stimulation. Taken together, the distribution of GnIH efferents to neural sites regulating reproductive behavior and neuroendocrine secretions, expression of steroid receptors in GnIH-ir nuclei, and GnIH inhibition of luteinizing hormone secretion indicate the discovery of a system regulating the mammalian reproductive axis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lance J Kriegsfeld
- Department of Psychology and Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Abstract
There is a growing understanding of risks posed by human contact with the cercariae of bird schistosomes. In general, there are no fundamental biological differences between human and bird schistosomes in terms of their interactions with snail and vertebrate hosts. The penetration of host surfaces is accompanied by the release of penetration gland products and the shedding of highly antigenic surface components (miracidial ciliated plates and cercarial glycocalyx) which trigger host immune reactions. New surface structures are formed during transformation: the tegument of mother sporocysts and the tegumental double membrane of schistosomula. These surfaces apparently serve as protection against the host immune response. Certain parasite excretory-secretory products may contribute to immunosuppression or, on the other hand, stimulation of host immune reactions. Discovery of new species and their life cycles, the characterization of host-parasite interactions (including at the molecular level), the determination of parasite pathogenicity towards the host, the development of tools for differential diagnosis and the application of protective measures are all topical research streams of the future. Regularly updated information on bird schistosomes and cercarial dermatitis can be found at http://www.schistosomes.cz (web pages of Schistosome Group Prague).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- P Horák
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Vinicná 7, CZ-12844 Prague 2, Czech Republic.
| | | |
Collapse
|