Scott Cummins

Characterisation of two conopressin precursor isoforms in the land snail, Theba pisana

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 06-2016

DOI: 10.1016/J.PEPTIDES.2015.12.009

Abstract: Increased understanding of the molecular components involved in mollusc reproduction may assist in understanding the evolutionary adaptations used by animals, including hermaphrodites, to produce offspring. The neuropeptide conopressin, a member of the vasopressin/oxytocin-like peptide family, can modulate various reproductive activities in invertebrates. In this study, we used the hermaphroditic land snail, Theba pisana, to investigate the presence and tissue-specific distribution of a conopressin gene. Our transcriptomic analysis of T. pisana CNS sheath tissue has revealed two conopressin gene transcripts (Tpi-conopressin-1 and Tpi-conopressin-2), each encoding for precursors containing an identical conopressin nonapeptide and a variable neurophysin. T. pisana conopressins share high identity with other land snails and slugs, as well as other mollusc and vertebrate vasopressin/oxytocin, supported by phylogenetic analysis. Conserved residues in the T. pisana neurophysin are important for peptide binding, and we present molecular dynamic models demonstrating the most likely stable structure of the Tpi-conopressin-1 peptide when associated with neurophysin. RT-PCR shows that Tpi-conopressin-1 is additionally expressed in reproductive tissues, including the dart sac, where abundant spatial expression throughout the sac region is found this implies a role in 'love' dart synthesis or dart injection during mating. The presence of a conopressin receptor in the CNS sheath indicates CNS neural excitation. In summary, this study represents a detailed molecular analysis of conopressin in a land snail.

GPCR and IR genes in Schistosoma mansoni miracidia

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 26-10-2016

DOI: 10.1186/S13071-016-1837-2

A Sperm Spawn-Inducing Pheromone in the Silver Lip Pearl Oyster (Pinctada maxima)

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 28-04-2018

DOI: 10.1007/S10126-018-9824-6

Abstract: Pheromones are considered to play an important role in broadcast spawning in aquatic animals, facilitating synchronous release of gametes. In oysters, the sperm has been implicated as a carrier for the spawn-inducing pheromone (SIP). In hatchery conditions, male pearl oysters (Pinctata maxima) can be stimulated to spawn through a variety of approaches (e.g. rapid temperature change), while females can only be induced to spawn through exposure to conspecific sperm, thus limiting development of targeted pairing, required for genetic research and management. The capacity for commercial production and improvement of genetic lines of pearl oysters could be greatly improved with access to a SIP. In this study, we prepared and sequenced crude and semi-purified P. maxima sperm extracts that were used in bioassays to localise the female SIP. We report that the P. maxima SIP is proteinaceous and extrinsically associated with the sperm membrane. Bioactivity from pooled RP-HPLC fractions, but not in idual fractions, suggests that the SIP is multi-component. We conclude that crude sperm preparations, as described in this study, can be used as a sperm-free inducer of female P. maxima spawning, which enables for a more efficient approach to genetic breeding.

A Review of the Giant Triton (Charonia tritonis), from Exploitation to Coral Reef Protector?

Publisher: MDPI AG

Date: 09-11-2022

DOI: 10.3390/D14110961

Abstract: Charonia tritonis (Charoniidae), one of the largest marine gastropods and an echinoderm specialist, preys on Crown-of-Thorns starfish (CoTS), a recurring pest that continues to be a leading cause of coral mortality on Indo-Pacific reefs. Widespread historical exploitation has impacted their numbers, with standing populations considered rare throughout their habitat. Their life-stage attributes, i.e., teleplanic larvae, planktotrophic phase spanning years permitting transoceanic dispersal, and recruitment to coral reefs through oceanic influx with intense larval mortality, have likely hindered their recovery. Decline in numbers is hypothesised to account partially for periodic CoTS outbreaks, yet predator-prey dynamics between these two species that might influence this are poorly understood. The C. tritonis excretory secretome elicits a proximity deterrence effect on CoTS, the nature of which is under investigation as a possible tool in CoTS biocontrol scenarios. However, specificity and zone of impact in situ are unknown, and whether the mere presence of C. tritonis and/or predation pressure has any regulatory influence over CoTS populations remains to be established. The fundamental taxonomy and distinctive characteristics, biology and ecology of C. tritonis is summarized, and knowledge gaps relevant to understanding their role within coral reefs identified. Information is provided regarding exploitation of C. tritonis across its habitat, and prospects for conservation interventions, including captive rearing and stock enhancement to repopulate local regions, are discussed. Its predator-prey ecology is also examined and potential to mitigate CoTS considered. Recommendations to direct future research into this predator and for its inclusion in a CoTS integrated pest management strategy to improve coral reef health are offered.

Characterization of Aplysia Alb-1, a candidate water-borne protein pheromone released during egg laying

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 02-2008

DOI: 10.1016/J.PEPTIDES.2007.07.031

Abstract: Pheromones are known to be important to the innate behavior of marine animals. Attraction in Aplysia involves the long-distance water-borne protein pheromones attractin, enticin, temptin and seductin, which are released from the albumen gland during egg laying. Other pheromones are predicted to act in concert with these pheromones, but their identities are unknown. To identify additional pheromone candidates, we employed differential library screening of an albumen gland cDNA library, RT-PCR, recombinant protein expression, rhinophore contraction bioassays and immunocytochemistry. Alb-1 is expressed in the Aplysia californica albumen gland and encodes a novel protein that does not share significant sequence identity with any proteins in the database. RT-PCR analysis detected Alb-1 transcripts in the albumen gland, exocrine atrial gland and ovotestis. The Alb-1 precursor has a signal peptide sequence followed by a predicted 101-residue protein sequence containing eight cysteine residues. Recombinant protein expression, RP-HPLC, microsequence analysis and MALDI mass spectrometry analyses demonstrated that mature recombinant Alb-1 was processed at a paired basic residue site to generate an N-terminal and C-terminal protein fragment this was consistent with immunoblot observations on purified albumen gland extracts. In rhinophore contraction (twitch) bioassays, the recombinant N-terminal protein induced rhinophore contractions whereas the C-terminal protein did not. An antibody generated to the N-terminal protein was used for immunocytochemical and immunoblot analyses and demonstrated that this protein is present in albumen gland secretory cells, egg cordons and egg eluates. Overall, the data suggest that Alb-1 may be processed in the albumen gland and that the Alb-1 1-56 protein released during egg laying may serve a pheromonal function in concert with attractin, enticin, temptin and seductin.

REGene: a literature-based knowledgebase of animal regeneration that bridge tissue regeneration and cancer

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 15-03-2016

DOI: 10.1038/SREP23167

Abstract: Regeneration is a common phenomenon across multiple animal phyla. Regeneration-related genes (REGs) are critical for fundamental cellular processes such as proliferation and differentiation. Identification of REGs and elucidating their functions may help to further develop effective treatment strategies in regenerative medicine. So far, REGs have been largely identified by small-scale experimental studies and a comprehensive characterization of the erse biological processes regulated by REGs is lacking. Therefore, there is an ever-growing need to integrate REGs at the genomics, epigenetics and transcriptome level to provide a reference list of REGs for regeneration and regenerative medicine research. Towards achieving this, we developed the first literature-based database called REGene (REgeneration Gene database). In the current release, REGene contains 948 human (929 protein-coding and 19 non-coding genes) and 8445 homologous genes curated from gene ontology and extensive literature examination. Additionally, the REGene database provides detailed annotations for each REG, including: gene expression, methylation sites, upstream transcription factors and protein-protein interactions. An analysis of the collected REGs reveals strong links to a variety of cancers in terms of genetic mutation, protein domains and cellular pathways. We have prepared a web interface to share these regeneration genes, supported by refined browsing and searching functions at REGene.bioinfo-minzhao.org/ .

Greenlip Abalone (Haliotis laevigata) Genome and Protein Analysis Provides Insights into Maturation and Spawning.

Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)

Date: 10-2019

DOI: 10.1534/G3.119.400388

Abstract: Wild abalone (Family Haliotidae) populations have been severely affected by commercial fishing, poaching, anthropogenic pollution, environment and climate changes. These issues have stimulated an increase in aquaculture production however production growth has been slow due to a lack of genetic knowledge and resources. We have sequenced a draft genome for the commercially important temperate Australian ‘greenlip’ abalone (Haliotis laevigata, Donovan 1808) and generated 11 tissue transcriptomes from a female adult abalone. Phylogenetic analysis of the greenlip abalone with reference to the Pacific abalone (Haliotis discus hannai) indicates that these abalone species erged approximately 71 million years ago. This study presents an in-depth analysis into the features of reproductive dysfunction, where we provide the putative biochemical messenger components (neuropeptides) that may regulate reproduction including gonad maturation and spawning. Indeed, we isolate the egg-laying hormone neuropeptide and under trial conditions induce spawning at 80% efficiency. Altogether, we provide a solid platform for further studies aimed at stimulating advances in abalone aquaculture production. The H. laevigata genome and resources are made available to the public on the abalone ‘omics website, abalonedb.org.

Characterization of mucus‐associated proteins from abalone (Haliotis) – candidates for chemical signaling

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 30-12-2011

DOI: 10.1111/J.1742-4658.2011.08436.X

Abstract: Living in groups is a widespread phenomenon in the animal kingdom. For free-spawning aquatic animals, such as the abalone (Haliotis), being in the close proximity to potential mating partners enhances reproductive success. In this study, we investigated whether chemical cues could be present in abalone mucus that enable species-specific aggregation. A comparative MS analysis of mucus obtained from trailing or fixed stationary Haliotis asinina, and from seawater surrounding aggregations, indicated that water-soluble biomolecules are present and that these can stimulate sensory activity in conspecifics. Purified extracts of trail mucus contain at least three small proteins [termed H. asinina mucus-associated proteins (Has-MAPs)-1-3], which readily diffuse into the surrounding seawater and evoke a robust cephalic tentacle response in conspecifics. Mature Has-MAP-1 is approximately 9.9 kDa in size, and has a glycine-rich N-terminal region. Has-MAP-2 is approximately 6.2 kDa in size, and has similarities to schistosomin, a protein that is known to play a role in mollusc reproduction. The mature Has-MAP-3 is approximately 12.5 kDa in size, and could only be identified within trail mucus of animals outside of the reproductive season. All three Has-MAP genes are expressed at high levels within secretory cells of the juvenile abalone posterior pedal gland, consistent with a role in scent marking. We infer from these results that abalone mucus-associated proteins are candidate chemical cues that could provide informational cues to conspecifics living in close proximity and, given their apparent stability and hydrophilicity, animals further afield.

Multi-tissue transcriptomics for construction of a comprehensive gene resource for the terrestrial snail Theba pisana

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 08-02-2016

DOI: 10.1038/SREP20685

Abstract: The land snail Theba pisana is native to the Mediterranean region but has become one of the most abundant invasive species worldwide. Here, we present three transcriptomes of this agriculture pest derived from three tissues: the central nervous system, hepatopancreas (digestive gland), and foot muscle. Sequencing of the three tissues produced 339,479,092 high quality reads and a global de novo assembly generated a total of 250,848 unique transcripts (unigenes). BLAST analysis mapped 52,590 unigenes to NCBI non-redundant protein databases and further functional analysis annotated 21,849 unigenes with gene ontology. We report that T. pisana transcripts have representatives in all functional classes and a comparison of differentially expressed transcripts amongst all three tissues demonstrates enormous differences in their potential metabolic activities. The genes differentially expressed include those with sequence similarity to those genes associated with multiple bacterial diseases and neurological diseases. To provide a valuable resource that will assist functional genomics study, we have implemented a user-friendly web interface, ThebaDB ( thebadb.bioinfo-minzhao.org/ ). This online database allows for complex text queries, sequence searches, and data browsing by enriched functional terms and KEGG mapping.

Cloning of the crustacean hyperglycemic hormone and evidence for molt-inhibiting hormone within the central nervous system of the blue crab Portunus pelagicus

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 02-2013

DOI: 10.1016/J.CBPA.2012.10.029

Abstract: The crustacean X-organ-sinus gland (XO-SG) complex controls molt-inhibiting hormone (MIH) production, although extra expression sites for MIH have been postulated. Therefore, to explore the expression of MIH and distinguish between the crustacean hyperglycemic hormone (CHH) superfamily, and MIH immunoreactive sites (ir) in the central nervous system (CNS), we cloned a CHH gene sequence for the crab Portunus pelagicus (Ppel-CHH), and compared it with crab CHH-type I and II peptides. Employing multiple sequence alignments and phylogenic analysis, the mature Ppel-CHH peptide exhibited residues common to both CHH-type I and II peptides, and a high degree of identity to the type-I group, but little homology between Ppel-CHH and Ppel-MIH (a type II peptide). This sequence identification then allowed for the use of MIH antisera to further confirm the identity and existence of a MIH-ir 9kDa protein in all neural organs tested by Western blotting, and through immunohistochemistry, MIH-ir in the XO, optic nerve, neuronal cluster 17 of the supraesophageal ganglion, the ventral nerve cord, and cell cluster 22 of the thoracic ganglion. The presence of MIH protein within such a ersity of sites in the CNS, and external to the XO-SG, raises new questions concerning the established mode of MIH action.

Differential peptide expression in the central nervous system of the land snail Theba pisana, between active and aestivated

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 06-2016

DOI: 10.1016/J.PEPTIDES.2015.08.012

Abstract: Hypometabolism is a physiological state of dormancy entered by many animals in times of environmental stress. There are gaps in our understanding of the molecular components used by animals to achieve this metabolic state. The availability of genomic and transcriptome data can be useful to study the process of hypometabolism at the molecular level. In this study, we use the land snail Theba pisana to identify peptides that may be involved in the hypometabolic state known as aestivation. We found a total of 22 neuropeptides in the central nervous system (CNS) that were differentially produced during activity and aestivation based on mass spectral-based neuropeptidome analysis. Of these, 4 were upregulated in active animals and 18 were upregulated in aestivation. A neuropeptide known to regulate muscle contractions in a variety of molluscs, the small cardioactive peptide A (sCAPA), and a peptide of yet unknown function (termed Aestivation Associated Peptide 12) were chosen for further investigation using temporal and spatial expression analysis of the precursor gene and peptide. Both peptides share expression within regions of the CNS cerebral ganglia and suboesophageal ganglia. Relative transcript abundance suggests that regulation of peptide synthesis and secretion is post-transcriptional. In summary, we provide new insights into the molecular basis of the regulation of aestivation in land snails through CNS peptide control.

Reproductive neuropeptides that stimulate spawning in the Sydney Rock Oyster (Saccostrea glomerata)

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 08-2016

DOI: 10.1016/J.PEPTIDES.2016.06.007

Abstract: The Sydney Rock Oyster, Saccostrea glomerata, is a socioeconomically important species in Australia, yet little is known about the molecular mechanism that regulates its reproduction. To address this gap, we have performed a combination of high throughput transcriptomic and peptidomic analysis, to identify genes and neuropeptides that are expressed in the key regulatory tissues of S. glomerata the visceral ganglia and gonads. Neuropeptides are known to encompass a erse class of peptide messengers that play functional roles in many aspects of an animal's life, including reproduction. Approximately 28 neuropeptide genes were identified, primarily within the visceral ganglia transcriptome, that encode precursor proteins containing numerous neuropeptides some were confirmed through mass spectral peptidomics analysis of the visceral ganglia. Of those, 28 bioactive neuropeptides were synthesized, and then tested for their capacity to induce gonad development and spawning in S. glomerata. Egg laying hormone, gonadotropin-releasing hormone, APGWamide, buccalin, CCAP and LFRFamide were neuropeptides found to trigger spawning in ripe animals. Additional testing of APGWa and buccalin demonstrated their capacity to advance conditioning and gonadal maturation. In summary, our analysis of S. glomerata has identified neuropeptides that can influence the reproductive cycle of this species, specifically by accelerating gonadal maturation and triggering spawning. Other molluscan neuropeptides identified in this study will enable further research into understanding the neuroendocrinology of oysters, which may benefit their cultivation.

Differential expression microarrays reveal candidate genes potentially associated with reproductive dysfunction of captive-reared prawn Penaeus monodon

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 06-2013

DOI: 10.1016/J.AQUACULTURE.2013.02.038

Aplysia temptin − the ‘glue’ in the water‐borne attractin pheromone complex

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 26-09-2007

DOI: 10.1111/J.1742-4658.2007.06070.X

Abstract: Temptin, a component of the complex of water-borne protein pheromones that stimulate attraction and mating behavior in the marine mollusk Aplysia, has sequence homology to the epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like domains of higher organisms that mediate protein-cell surface contact during fertilization and blood coagulation. In this work, recombinant temptin for structural and functional studies was produced in Escherichia coli using a cold shock promoter and purified by RP-HPLC. CD spectra confirmed a predominantly beta-sheet structure. Two disulfide bonds were determined via limited proteolysis and MS. One internal disulfide (Cys57-Cys77) was predicted from initial alignments with class I EGF-like domains the second, between Cys18 and Cys103, could protect temptin against proteolysis in seawater and stabilize its interacting surface. A three-dimensional model of temptin was prepared with our MPACK suite, based on the Ca(2+)-binding, EGF-like domain of the extracellular matrix protein fibrillin. Two temptin residues, Trp52 and Trp79, which align with cysteine residues conserved in fibrillins, lie adjacent to and could stabilize the disulfide bonds and a proposed metal-binding loop. The water-borne pheromone attractin in egg cordon eluates is complexed with other proteins. Docking results with our model and the NMR structure of attractin suggest that one face of temptin interacts with the pheromone, perhaps controlling its access to the cellular receptors. Gel shifts confirmed that temptin complexes with wild-type attractin. These results indicate that temptin, analogous to the role of fibrillin in controlling transforming growth factor-beta concentration, modulates pheromone signaling by direct binding to attractin.

Molecular analysis of two FMRFamide-encoding transcripts expressed during the development of the tropical abalone haliotis asinina

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 23-05-2011

DOI: 10.1002/CNE.22621

Abstract: FMRFamide-related peptides (FaRPs) are involved in numerous neural functions across the animal kingdom and serve as important models for understanding the evolution of neuropeptides. Gastropod molluscs have proved to be particularly useful foci for such studies, but the developmental expression of FaRPs and the evolution of specific transcripts for different peptides are unclear within the molluscs. Here we show that FaRPs are encoded by two transcripts that appear to be splice variants of a single gene in the abalone, Haliotis asinina, which represents the basal vetigastropods. Has-FMRF1 comprises 1,438 nucleotides and encodes a precursor protein of 329 amino acids that can potentially produce two copies of FLRFamide, one copy each of TLAGDSFLRFamide, QFYRIamide, SDPDLDDVIRASLLAYSLDDSPNN, and SVATAPVEAKAVEAGNKDIE, and 13 copies of FMRFamide. The second 1,241-nucleotide transcript, Has-FMRF2, encodes a 206-amino acid precursor protein with single copies of FLRFamide and FMRFamide along with such extended forms as NFGEPFLRFamide, FDSYEDKALRFamide, and NGWLHFamide, in addition to SDPGEDMLKSILLRGAPSNNGLQY and DTUDETTUNDNAHSRQ. Both transcripts are present early in life and are expressed in different but overlapping patterns within the developing larval nervous system. Mass spectrometry and immunocytochemistry demonstrate that FaRPs are cleaved from larger precursors and localize to the developing nervous system. Our results confirm previous evidence that FaRPs are expressed early and potentially play many roles during molluscan development and suggest that the last common ancestor to living gastropods used alternative splicing of an FMRFamide gene to generate a ersity of FaRPs in spatially restricted patterns in the nervous system.

The Amphimedon queenslandica genome and the evolution of animal complexity

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 08-2010

DOI: 10.1038/NATURE09201

Peptide products of the atrial gland are not water-borne reproductive pheromones during egg laying in Aplysia

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 08-2003

DOI: 10.1016/J.PEPTIDES.2003.06.001

Abstract: Mate attraction in Aplysia involves long-distance water-borne signaling via the secretion of the peptide pheromone attractin from the exocrine albumen gland during egg laying. Previous studies have shown that a second exocrine organ, the atrial gland, produces abundant egg-laying hormone (ELH) precursor-related peptides and mollusk-derived growth factor (MDGF), and crude extracts of the atrial gland are attractive in T-maze attraction assays. However, it is not known whether these peptides and proteins are secreted during egg laying. In this report, seawater eluates of freshly laid egg cordons were concentrated and fractionated by C18 RP-HPLC, and the resulting major peaks were examined by amino acid compositional analysis, microsequence analysis, and electrospray mass spectrometry. Concentrated egg cordon eluates were also examined by immunoblot analysis using anti-MDGF antisera as probe. The combined data demonstrated that the atrial gland of Aplysia californica does not secrete detectable levels of either ELH precursor-related peptides or MDGF during egg laying. Although the atrial gland is the last major exocrine organ to make contact with eggs before they are laid, the gland does not appear to secrete water-borne peptide pheromones during egg laying.

In vitro oocyte maturation by radial nerve extract and early development of the black sea cucumber (Holothuria leucospilota)

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 10-2018

DOI: 10.1016/J.AQUACULTURE.2018.05.032

Ancient Protostome Origin of Chemosensory Ionotropic Glutamate Receptors and the Evolution of Insect Taste and Olfaction

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 19-08-2010

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PGEN.1001064

Chemical Ecology of Chemosensation in Asteroidea: Insights Towards Management Strategies of Pest Species

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 24-01-2018

DOI: 10.1007/S10886-018-0926-4

Abstract: Within the Phylum Echinodermata, the class Asteroidea, commonly known as starfish and sea stars, encompasses a large number of benthos inhabiting genera and species with various feeding modalities including herbivores, carnivores, omnivores and detritivores. The Asteroidea rely on chemosensation throughout their life histories including hunting prey, avoiding or deterring predators, in the formation of spawning aggregations, synchronizing gamete release and targeting appropriate locations for larval settlement. The identities of many of the chemical stimuli that mediate these physiological and behavioural processes remain unresolved even though evidence indicates they play pivotal roles in the functionality of benthic communities. Aspects of chemosensation, as well as putative chemically-mediated behaviours and the molecular mechanisms of chemoreception, within the Asteroidea are reviewed here, with particular reference to the coral reef pest the Crown-of-Thorns starfish Acanthaster planci species complex, in the context of mitigation of population outbreaks.

Gene expression profiling of the cephalothorax and eyestalk in Penaeus monodon during ovarian maturation

Publisher: Ivyspring International Publisher

Date: 2012

DOI: 10.7150/IJBS.3517

Characterization of abalone gonadotropin releasing hormone and its effect on ovarian cell proliferation

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 2016

DOI: 10.1016/J.AQUACULTURE.2015.07.008

Characterization of a GABAA receptor β subunit in the abalone Haliotis asinina that is upregulated during larval development

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 12-2011

DOI: 10.1016/J.JEMBE.2011.10.005

The protein and volatile components of trail mucus in the Common Garden Snail, Cornu aspersum

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 27-05-2021

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PONE.0251565

Abstract: The Common or Brown Garden Snail, Cornu aspersum , is an invasive land snail that has successfully colonized a erse range of global environments. Like other invasive land snails, it is a significant pest of a variety of agricultural crops, including citrus, grapes and canola. Cornu aspersum secretes a mucus trail when mobile that facilitates locomotion. The involvement of the trail in conspecific chemical communication has also been postulated. Our study found that anterior tentacle contact with conspecific mucus elicited a significant increase in heart rate from 46.9 to 51 beats per minute. In order to gain a better understanding of the constituents of the trail mucus and the role it may play in snail communication, the protein and volatile components of mucus trails were investigated. Using two different protein extraction methods, mass spectrometry analysis yielded 175 different proteins, 29 of which had no significant similarity to any entries in the non-redundant protein sequence database. Of the mucus proteins, 22 contain features consistent with secreted proteins, including a perlucin-like protein. The eight most abundant volatiles detected using gas chromatography were recorded (including propanoic acid and limonene) and their potential role as putative pheromones are discussed. In summary, this study has provided an avenue for further research pertaining to the role of trail mucus in snail communication and provides a useful repository for land snail trail mucus components. This may be utilized for further research regarding snail attraction and dispersal, which may be applied in the fields of agriculture, ecology and human health.

Genes and associated peptides involved with aestivation in a land snail

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 05-2017

DOI: 10.1016/J.YGCEN.2015.10.013

Abstract: Some animals can undergo a remarkable transition from active normal life to a dormant state called aestivation entry into this hypometabolic state ensures that life continues even during long periods of environmental hardship. In this study, we aimed to identify those central nervous system (CNS) peptides that may regulate metabolic suppression leading to aestivation in land snails. Mass spectral-based neuropeptidome analysis of the CNS comparing active and aestivating states, revealed 19 differentially produced peptides 2 were upregulated in active animals and 17 were upregulated in aestivated animals. Of those, the buccalin neuropeptide was further investigated since there is existing evidence in molluscs that buccalin modulates physiology by muscle contraction. The Theba pisana CNS contains two buccalin transcripts that encode precursor proteins that are capable of releasing numerous buccalin peptides. Of these, Tpi-buccalin-2 is most highly expressed within our CNS transcriptome derived from multiple metabolic states. No significant difference was observed at the level of gene expression levels for Tpi-buccalin-2 between active and aestivated animals, suggesting that regulation may reside at the level of post-translational control of peptide abundance. Spatial gene and peptide expression analysis of aestivated snail CNS demonstrated that buccalin-2 has widespread distribution within regions that control several physiological roles. In conclusion, we provide the first detailed molecular analysis of the peptides and associated genes that are related to hypometabolism in a gastropod snail known to undergo extended periods of aestivation.

Neuropeptides encoded by the genomes of the akoya pearl oyster pinctata fucata and pacific oyster crassostrea gigas: A bioinformatic and peptidomic survey

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 02-10-2014

DOI: 10.1186/1471-2164-15-840

Attenuation of UV-B exposure-induced inflammation by abalone hypobranchial gland and gill extracts

Publisher: Spandidos Publications

Date: 29-03-2017

DOI: 10.3892/IJMM.2017.2939

Expression of prohormone convertase 2 and the generation of neuropeptides in the developing nervous system of the gastropod Haliotis

Publisher: UPV/EHU Press

Date: 2009

DOI: 10.1387/IJDB.082791SC

Abstract: Prohormone convertase 2 (PC2) belongs to a family of enzymes involved in the proteolytic maturation of neuropeptide precursors into mature peptides that act as neurotransmitters, neuromodulators or neurohormones. Here we show that a gene encoding a PC2-like enzyme (HasPC2) is expressed during larval development and in the adult ganglia of the vetigastropod Haliotis asinina. HasPC2 exhibits high sequence identity to other gastropod PC2s and thus is likely to function in peptide processing. Analysis of HasPC2 expression indicates that it is activated early in nervous system development. During trochophore and early veliger larval stages, HasPC2 is expressed in the vicinity of the forming ganglia of the central nervous system and parts of the putative peripheral nervous system. Later in larval development, at the time the veliger becomes competent to interact with the external environment and initiate metamorphosis, HasPC2 expression largely restricts to cells of the major ganglia and their commissures. Profiling of veliger larvae by bioinformatic approaches suggests the expression of a variety of peptides. Direct MALDI-MS-based peptide profiling of juvenile Haliotis cerebral ganglia (brain) reveals an abundance of neuropeptides, including FMRFamide-related peptides and APGWamide, compatible with PC2 functioning in neuropeptide processing in these regions. These results are consistent with PC2 regulating neuropeptide generation in the earliest functioning of the gastropod nervous system.

Molluscan attractins, a family of water-borne protein pheromones with interspecific attractiveness

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 2005

DOI: 10.1016/J.PEPTIDES.2004.07.017

Abstract: The marine mollusk Aplysia releases the water-borne pheromone attractin during egg laying. This small protein stimulates the formation and maintenance of mating and egg-laying aggregations. Attractin has been characterized from five Aplysia species: A. californica, A. brasiliana, A. fasciata, A. vaccaria, and A. depilans. We describe here the isolation of attractin from Bursatella leachii, and show that it belongs to the same protein family. The pattern of residue conservation, especially the six invariant cysteines, suggests that all of these attractins have a common fold. The nuclear magnetic resonance solution structure of A. californica attractin contains two antiparallel alpha-helices, the second of which contains the heptapeptide sequence IEECKTS that has been implicated in attractin function. Synthetic peptides containing this IEECKTS region are attractive, and mutating surface exposed charged residues within this region of attractin abolishes attractin activity. This suggests that the second helix is an essential part of the receptor-binding interface. In contrast to the peptide pheromonal attractants in hibians, which are species specific, the attractins are, to our knowledge, the first water-borne peptide or protein pheromone family in invertebrates and vertebrates that are not species specific.

Sensory sea slugs

Publisher: Informa UK Limited

Date: 09-2010

DOI: 10.4161/CIB.3.5.12091

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone and adipokinetic hormone/corazonin-related peptide in the female prawn

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 09-2016

DOI: 10.1016/J.YGCEN.2016.07.008

Abstract: Crustacean neuropeptides (NPs) play important roles in the regulation of most physiological activities, including growth, molting and reproduction. In this study, we have performed an in silico analysis of female prawn (Macrobrachium rosenbergii) neural transcriptomes to identify NPs not previously identified. We predict that approximately 1309 proteins are destined for the secretory pathway, many of which are likely post-translationally processed to generate active peptides. Within this neural secretome, we identified a gene transcript that encoded a precursor protein with striking similarity to a gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). We additionally identified another GnRH NP superfamily member, the adipokinetic hormone/corazonin-related peptide (ACP). M. rosenbergii GnRH and ACP were widespread throughout the nervous tissues, implicating them as potential neuromodulators. Furthermore, GnRH was found in non-neural tissues, including the stomach, gut, heart, testis and ovary, in the latter most prominently within secondary oocytes. The GnRH/corazonin receptor-like gene is specific to the ovary, whereas the receptor-like gene expression is more widespread. Administration of GnRH had no effect on ovarian development and maturation, nor any effect on total hemolymph lipid levels, while ACP administration decreased oocyte proliferation (at high dose) and stimulated a significant increase in total hemolymph lipids. In conclusion, our targeted analysis of the M. rosenbergii neural secretome has revealed the decapod GnRH and ACP genes. We propose that ACP in crustaceans plays a role in the lipid metabolism and the inhibition of oocyte proliferation, while the role of the GnRH remains to be clearly defined, possibly through experiments involving gene silencing.

Existence of an egg-laying hormone-like peptide in male reproductive system of the giant freshwater prawn, Macrobrachium rosenbergii

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 02-2019

DOI: 10.1016/J.ACTHIS.2018.11.007

Abstract: The giant freshwater prawn, Macrobrachium rosenbergii, is an important aquaculture species. A better understanding of the molecular components of reproduction in this species would help to advance the prawn production. In the present study, we demonstrated the presence of an egg laying hormone (ELH)-like peptide in the male reproductive system. First, an antibody to the abalone (a)ELH was generated, and by Western blot it was shown to specifically bound to a protein from the male M. rosenbergii reproductive tissues with a similar size to molluscan ELH. This aELH-like peptide was localized in spermatogonia in the testes of all three male morphotypes: blue claw, orange claw and small males. Moreover, the aELH-like peptide was detected in the epithelium of the spermatic duct and its associated smooth muscle cell layers and on the outer surface of spermatozoa. As well, the aELH-like peptide was detected in the spermatophore located in the female thelycum at 4-6 h post-mating, indicating that it was transferred to the female during copulation. Taken together, we suggest that this aELH-like peptide could be as a male inducing factor that helped to accelerate female spawning. Liquid chromatography of crude extracts and immunoblot analysis suggested that the aELH-like peptide could be further purified for ultimate characterization.

Transcriptomic discovery and comparative analysis of neuropeptide precursors in sea cucumbers (Holothuroidea)

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 2018

DOI: 10.1016/J.PEPTIDES.2017.10.008

Abstract: Neuropeptides synthesized and released by neuronal cells play important roles in the regulation of many processes, e.g. growth, feeding, reproduction, and behavior. In the past decade, next-generation sequencing technologies have helped to facilitate the identification of multiple neuropeptide genes in a variety of taxa, including arthropods, molluscs and echinoderms. In this study, we extend these studies to Holothuria scabra, a sea cucumber species that is widely cultured for human consumption. In silico analysis of H. scabra neural and gonadal transcriptomes enabled the identification of 28 transcripts that encode a total of 26 bilaterian and echinoderm-specific neuropeptide precursors. Furthermore, publicly available sequence data from another sea cucumber, Holothuria glaberrima, allowed a more in-depth comparative investigation. Interestingly, two isoforms of a calcitonin-type peptide precursor (CTPP) were deduced from the H. scabra transcriptome - HscCTPP-long and HscCTPP-short, likely the result of alternative splicing. We also identified a sea cucumber relaxin-type peptide precursor, which is of interest because relaxin-type peptides have been shown to act as gonadotropic hormones in starfish. Two neuropeptides that appear to be holothurian-specific are GLRFA, and GN-19. In H. scabra, the expression of GLRFA was restricted to neural tissues, while GN-19 expression was additionally found in the longitudinal muscle and intestinal tissues. In conclusion, we have obtained new insights into the neuropeptide signaling systems of holothurians, which will facilitate physiological studies that may enable advances in the aquaculture of sea cucumbers.

A conserved heptapeptide sequence in the waterborne attractin pheromone stimulates mate attraction in Aplysia

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 02-2004

DOI: 10.1016/J.PEPTIDES.2003.12.018

Gene identification and evidence for expression of G protein α subunits, phospholipase C, and an inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor in Aplysia californica rhinophore

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 07-2007

DOI: 10.1016/J.YGENO.2007.03.020

Abstract: In the marine mollusk Aplysia californica, waterborne protein pheromones that are released during egg laying act in concert to stimulate mate attraction. However, molecular information concerning the cellular receptors and signaling mechanisms that may be involved in waterborne peptide and protein pheromonal communication is lacking. As a first step toward examining whether members of the G protein family and phosphoinositide signaling pathway are present in the primary peripheral chemosensory organs (i.e., rhinophores), we isolated five full-length cDNA clones from an A. californica central nervous system cDNA library. These clones encoded (1) the G protein alpha subunits of the Gq, Gi, and Go families, (2) a protein with homology to phospholipase C (PLC) isoforms, and (3) an inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP3R). The expression of these genes was examined using laser capture microdissection/reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and in situ hybridization. All of them are expressed in the rhinophore sensory epithelium, suggesting that Galphaq, Galphai, Galphao, PLC-like protein, and IP3R may be involved in waterborne protein pheromone detection in Aplysia-possibly via a phosphoinositide signaling mechanism.

Major ampullate silk gland transcriptomes and fibre proteomes of the golden orb-weavers, Nephila plumipes and Nephila pilipes (Araneae: Nephilidae)

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 17-10-2018

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PONE.0204243

Genomic organization of Hox and ParaHox clusters in the echinoderm, Acanthaster planci

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 28-11-2014

DOI: 10.1002/DVG.22840

Abstract: The organization of echinoderm Hox clusters is of interest due to the role that Hox genes play in deuterostome development and body plan organization, and the unique gene order of the Hox complex in the sea urchin Strongylocentrotus purpuratus, which has been linked to the unique development of the axial region. Here, it has been reported that the Hox and ParaHox clusters of Acanthaster planci, a corallivorous starfish found in the Pacific and Indian oceans, generally resembles the chordate and hemichordate clusters. The A. planci Hox cluster shared with sea urchins the loss of one of the medial Hox genes, even-skipped (Evx) at the anterior of the cluster, as well as organization of the posterior Hox genes.

A Biomphalaria glabrata peptide that stimulates significant behaviour modifications in aquatic free-living Schistosoma mansoni miracidia

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 22-01-2019

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PNTD.0006948

Molecular characterization and analysis of a truncated serotonin receptor gene expressed in neural and reproductive tissues of abalone

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 13-02-2009

DOI: 10.1007/S00418-009-0555-7

Abstract: In molluscs, the neurotransmitter serotonin (5-HT) has been linked to a variety of biological roles including gamete maturation and spawning. The possible involvement of 5-HT in abalone gamete release was demonstrated by a dose-dependent increase in Haliotis rubra gonad contractile bioactivity following 5-HT stimulation. Physiological functions associated with 5-HT, are mediated through binding to 5-HT receptors. A cDNA encoding a putative 5-HT receptor consisting of 359 amino acids was isolated from the tropical abalone H. asinina, termed 5-HT(1 ha). The 5-HT(1 ha) shares G-protein-coupled receptor motifs with metazoan 5-HT receptors, including predicted transmembrane domains, active sites for protein kinase action, and N-linked glycosylation sites. However, the third intracellular loop of 5-HT(1 ha) is relatively short, and only six transmembrane domains are predicted, implying a truncated receptor. Phylogenetic analysis with known 5-HT receptor genes suggests that 5-HT(1 ha) belongs to the type 1 5-HT receptor family. Expression analysis by RT-PCR showed that 5-HT(1 ha) mRNA was present in all tissues examined, including the neural ganglia and gonad tissues. Immunocytochemistry revealed the presence of 5-HT(1 ha) specifically within the soma of neuronal cells located in the outer cortex of both cerebral and pleuropedal ganglia. In ovarian and testicular tissues, 5-HT(1 ha) immunoreactivity was observed in epithelial cells of the outer capsule and connective tissue of the trabeculae to which the gamete follicles adhere. Whether this receptor transcript is translated to a functional protein needs to be verified, but if so, it could play a role in reproduction.

Identification of putative olfactory G-protein coupled receptors in Crown-of-Thorns starfish, Acanthaster planci

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 23-05-2017

DOI: 10.1186/S12864-017-3793-4

In silico neuropeptidome of female Macrobrachium rosenbergii based on transcriptome and peptide mining of eyestalk, central nervous system and ovary

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 29-05-2015

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PONE.0123848

Aplysia capsulin is localized to egg capsules and egg cordon sheaths and shares sequence homology with Drosophila dec-1 gene products

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 04-2005

DOI: 10.1016/J.PEPTIDES.2004.11.006

Abstract: Differential library screening of an albumen gland cDNA library, Western blot analysis, protein expression, immunolocalization studies, comparative genomics, and secretion assays identified a major Aplysia californica albumen gland protein ('capsulin') that is localized to egg capsules and to the sheaths of the egg cordon. Capsulin shared sequence homology with eggshell proteins encoded by the Drosophila dec-1 gene. The 1790-amino acid A. californica precursor contains 17 repeat sequences that are flanked by basic residue processing sites. The numerous proteolytic processing sites may facilitate the breakdown of capsulin prior to when veliger larvae break out of egg capsules as free-swimming larvae. An Aplysia brasiliana capsulin repeat sequence was 97% identical to its A. californica homolog. Capsulin fragments were not detected in the eluates of egg cordons, suggesting that capsulin is not a candidate water-borne pheromone precursor.

Putative chemosensory receptors are differentially expressed in the sensory organs of male and female crown-of-thorns starfish, Acanthaster planci

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 29-11-2018

DOI: 10.1186/S12864-018-5246-0

A “Love” Dart Allohormone Identified in the Mucous Glands of Hermaphroditic Land Snails

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 04-2016

DOI: 10.1074/JBC.M115.704395

FMRFamide gene and peptide expression during central nervous system development of the cephalopod mollusk, Idiosepius notoides

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 03-2010

DOI: 10.1111/J.1525-142X.2010.00398.X

Characterisation of reproduction-associated genes and peptides in the pest land snail, Theba pisana

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 05-10-2016

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PONE.0162355

Investigation of Best Practices for Venom Toxin Purification in Jellyfish towards Functional Characterisation

Publisher: MDPI AG

Date: 21-02-2023

DOI: 10.3390/TOXINS15030170

Abstract: The relative lack of marine venom pharmaceuticals can be anecdotally attributed to difficulties in working with venomous marine animals, including how to maintain venom bioactivity during extraction and purification. The primary aim of this systematic literature review was to examine the key factors for consideration when extracting and purifying jellyfish venom toxins to maximise their effectiveness in bioassays towards the characterisation of a single toxin.An up-to-date database of 119 peer-reviewed research articles was established for all purified and semi-purified venoms across all jellyfish, including their level of purification, LD50, and the types of experimental toxicity bioassay used (e.g., whole animal and cell lines). We report that, of the toxins successfully purified across all jellyfish, the class Cubozoa (i.e., Chironex fleckeri and Carybdea rastoni) was most highly represented, followed by Scyphozoa and Hydrozoa. We outline the best practices for maintaining jellyfish venom bioactivity, including strict thermal management, using the “autolysis” extraction method and two-step liquid chromatography purification involving size exclusion chromatography. To date, the box jellyfish C. fleckeri has been the most effective jellyfish venom model with the most referenced extraction methods and the most isolated toxins, including CfTX-A/B. In summary, this review can be used as a resource for the efficient extraction, purification, and identification of jellyfish venom toxins.

The existence of gonadotropin-releasing hormone-like peptides in the neural ganglia and ovary of the abalone, Haliotis asinina L.

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 11-2010

DOI: 10.1016/J.ACTHIS.2009.06.002

Abstract: Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is a neuropeptide that is conserved in both vertebrate and invertebrate species. In this study, we have demonstrated the presence and distribution of two isoforms of GnRH-like peptides in neural ganglia and ovary of reproductively mature female abalone, Haliotis asinina, using immunohistochemistry. We found significant immunoreactivities (ir) of anti-l rey(l) GnRH-III and anti-tunicate(t) GnRH, but with variation of labeling intensity by each anti-GnRH type. lGnRH-III-ir was detected in numerous type 1 neurosecretory cells (NS1) throughout the cerebral and pleuropedal ganglia, whereas tGnRH-I-ir was detected in only a few NS1 cells in the dorsal region of cerebral and pleuropedal ganglia. In addition, a small number of type 2 neurosecretory cells (NS2) in cerebral ganglion showed lGnRH-III-ir. Long nerve fibers in the neuropil of ventral regions of the cerebral and pluropedal ganglia showed strong tGnRH-I-ir. In the ovary, lGnRH-III-ir was found primarily in oogonia and stage I oocytes, whereas tGnRH-ir was observed in stage I oocytes and some stage II oocytes. These results indicate that GnRH produced in neural ganglia may act in neural signaling. Alternatively, GnRH may also be synthesized locally in the ovary where it could induce oocyte development.

Transcriptomic analysis of the autophagy machinery in crustaceans

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 09-08-2016

DOI: 10.1186/S12864-016-2996-4

Proteomic analysis of the schistosoma mansoni miracidium

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 22-01-2016

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PONE.0147247

eSnail: A transcriptome‐based molecular resource of the central nervous system for terrestrial gastropods

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 12-11-2018

DOI: 10.1111/1755-0998.12722

Abstract: To expand on emerging terrestrial gastropod molecular resources, we have undertaken transcriptome-based sequencing of the central nervous system (CNS) from six ecologically invasive terrestrial gastropods. Focusing on snail species Cochlicella acuta and Helix aspersa and reticulated slugs Deroceras invadens, Deroceras reticulatum, Lehmannia nyctelia and Milax gagates, we obtained a total of 367,869,636 high-quality reads and compared them with existing CNS transcript resources for the invasive Mediterranean snail, Theba pisana. In total, we obtained 419,289 unique transcripts (unigenes) from 1,410,569 assembled contigs, with blast search analysis of multiple protein databases leading to the annotation of 124,268 unigenes, of which 92,544 mapped to ncbi nonredundant protein databases. We found that these transcriptomes have representatives in most biological functions, based on comparison of gene ontology, kegg pathway and protein family contents, demonstrating a high range of transcripts responsible for regulating metabolic activities and molecular functions occurring within the CNS. To provide an accessible genetic resource, we also demonstrate the presence of 66,687 microsatellites and 304,693 single-nucleotide variants, which can be used for the design of potentially thousands of unique primers for functional screening. An online "eSnail" database with a user-friendly web interface was implemented to query all the information obtained herein (snail). We demonstrate the usefulness of the database through the mining of molluscan neuropeptides. As the most comprehensive CNS transcriptome resource for terrestrial gastropods, eSnail may serve as a useful gateway for researchers to explore gastropod CNS function for multiple purposes, including for the development of biocontrol approaches.

Characterization, expression and function of the pyrokinins (PKs) in the giant freshwater prawn, Macrobrachium rosenbergii.

Publisher: The Company of Biologists

Date: 06-2022

DOI: 10.1242/JEB.243742

Abstract: Pyrokinins (PKs) are neuropeptides that have been found to regulate a variety of physiological activities including reproduction in various insect and crustacean species. However, the reproductive roles of PKs in the giant freshwater prawn, Macrobrachium rosenbergii, have not yet been investigated. In this study, we identified the MroPK gene from next-generation sequence resources, which encodes a MroPK precursor that shares a high degree of conservation with the C-terminal sequence of FxPRLamide in other arthropods. MroPK is expressed within most tissues, except the hepatopancreas, stomach and gill. Within developing ovarian tissue, MroPK expression was found to be significantly higher during the early stages (stages 1-2) compared with the late stages (stages 3-4), and could be localized to the oogonia, previtellogenic and early vitellogenic oocytes. A role for PK in M. rosenbergii reproduction was supported following experimental administration of MroPK to ovarian explant cultures, which led to an increase in the production of progesterone and estradiol and upregulation of expression of steroidogenesis-related genes (3β-HSD and 17β-HSD) and vitellogenin (Vg). Together, these results support a role for MroPK in regulating ovarian maturation via steroidogenesis.

Isolation of Organic Matrix Nacreous Proteins fromHaliotis diversicolorand Their Effect OnIn VitroOsteoinduction

Publisher: Institute of Malacology

Date: 12-2013

DOI: 10.4002/040.056.0208

Male Accessory Gland Protein Reduces Egg Laying in a Simultaneous Hermaphrodite

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 12-04-2010

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PONE.0010117

Assessment of yellowtail kingfish (Seriola lalandi) as a surrogate host for the production of southern bluefin tuna (Thunnus maccoyii) seed via spermatogonial germ cell transplantation

Publisher: CSIRO Publishing

Date: 2016

DOI: 10.1071/RD15136

Abstract: Germ cell transplantation is an innovative technology for the production of interspecies surrogates, capable of facilitating easier and more economical management of large-bodied broodstock, such as the bluefin tuna. The present study explored the suitability of yellowtail kingfish (Seriola lalandi) as a surrogate host for transplanted southern bluefin tuna (Thunnus maccoyii) spermatogonial cells to produce tuna donor-derived gametes upon sexual maturity. Germ cell populations in testes of donor T. maccoyii males were described using basic histology and the molecular markers vasa and dead-end genes. The peripheral area of the testis was found to contain the highest proportions of dead-end-expressing transplantable Type A spermatogonia. T. maccoyii Type A spermatogonia-enriched preparations were transplanted into the coelomic cavity of 6–10-day-old post-hatch S. lalandi larvae. Fluorescence microscopy and polymerase chain reaction analysis detected the presence of tuna cells in the gonads of the transplanted kingfish fingerlings at 18, 28, 39 and 75 days after transplantation, indicating that the transplanted cells migrated to the genital ridge and had colonised the developing gonad. T. maccoyii germ cell-derived DNA or RNA was not detected at later stages, suggesting that the donor cells were not maintained in the hosts’ gonads.

Development and Interrogation of a Transcriptomic Resource for the Giant Triton Snail (Charonia tritonis)

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 06-2021

DOI: 10.1007/S10126-021-10042-7

Abstract: Gastropod molluscs are among the most abundant species that inhabit coral reef ecosystems. Many are specialist predators, along with the giant triton snail Charonia tritonis (Linnaeus, 1758) whose diet consists of Acanthaster planci (crown-of-thorns starfish), a corallivore known to consume enormous quantities of reef-building coral. C. tritonis are considered vulnerable due to overexploitation, and a decline in their populations is believed to have contributed to recurring A. planci population outbreaks. Aquaculture is considered one approach that could help restore natural populations of C. tritonis and mitigate coral loss however, numerous questions remain unanswered regarding their life cycle, including the molecular factors that regulate their reproduction and development. In this study, we have established a reference C. tritonis transcriptome derived from developmental stages (embryo and veliger) and adult tissues. This was used to identify genes associated with cell signalling, such as neuropeptides and G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), involved in endocrine and olfactory signalling. A comparison of developmental stages showed that several neuropeptide precursors are exclusively expressed in post-hatch veligers and functional analysis found that FFamide stimulated a significant (20.3%) increase in larval heart rate. GPCRs unique to veligers, and a ersity of rhodopsin-like GPCRs located within adult cephalic tentacles, all represent candidate olfactory receptors. In addition, the cytochrome P450 superfamily, which participates in the biosynthesis and degradation of steroid hormones and lipids, was also found to be expanded with at least 91 genes annotated, mostly in gill tissue. These findings further progress our understanding of C. tritonis with possible application in developing aquaculture methods.

Differential expression of neuropeptides correlates with growth rate in cultivated Haliotis asinina (Vetigastropoda: Mollusca)

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 03-2012

DOI: 10.1016/J.AQUACULTURE.2011.12.019

Polyunsaturated fatty acid metabolism in a marine teleost, Nibe croaker Nibea mitsukurii: Functional characterization of Fads2 desaturase and Elovl5 and Elovl4 elongases

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 10-2015

DOI: 10.1016/J.CBPB.2015.06.005

Abstract: To reduce the requirement for fish oil in marine aquaculture, it would be advantageous to endow marine fish species with the capability for the endogenous biosynthesis of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). For this purpose, we have previously produced transgenic Nibe croaker (Nibea mitsukurii) carrying an elongase of very-long-chain fatty acids 2 (elovl2) gene isolated from Masu salmon (Oncorhynchus masou). However, fatty acid analysis revealed that 24:5n-3 accumulated in the liver of the transgenic fish, whereas the DHA level did not differ between non-transgenic and transgenic fish. Therefore, to select more effective enzymes for successful transgenic synthesis of DHA, understanding the endogenous DHA biosynthetic pathway in the Nibe croaker is considered to be important. The present study aimed to investigate the biochemical functions of the Elovl5, Elovl4 and Fads2 enzymes involved in the DHA biosynthetic pathway in the Nibe croaker. The results showed that both Elovl5 and Elovl4 were able to elongate C18 fatty acids to C22 fatty acids and that Fads2 had Δ6 desaturase activity toward C18 fatty acids and weak Δ8 desaturase activity toward C20 fatty acids. On the other hand, Fads2 was found to lack the ability to convert 24:5n-3 to 24:6n-3, a fatty acid that can directly be converted to DHA via β-oxidation.

The evolution of ependymin-related proteins

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 12-2018

DOI: 10.1186/S12862-018-1306-Y

Neuropeptides encoded within a neural transcriptome of the giant triton snail Charonia tritonis, a Crown-of-Thorns Starfish predator

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 12-2017

DOI: 10.1016/J.PEPTIDES.2017.01.004

Abstract: Neuropeptides represent a erse class of signaling molecules originating from neural tissues. These chemical modulators orchestrate complex physiological events including those associated with growth and reproduction. De novo transcriptome sequencing of a cerebral ganglion library of the endangered giant triton snail (Charonia tritonis) was undertaken in an effort to identify key neuropeptides that control or influence its physiology. The giant triton snail is considered a primary predator of the corallivore Acanthaster planci (Crown-of-Thorns Starfish) that is responsible for a significant loss in coral cover on reefs in the Indo-Pacific. The transcriptome library was assembled into contigs, and then bioinformatic analysis was used to identify a repertoire of 38 giant triton snail neuropeptide precursor genes, and various isoforms, that encode conserved molluscan neuropeptides. C. tritonis neuropeptides show overall precursor organisation consistent with those of other molluscs. These include those neuropeptides associated with mollusc reproduction such as the APGWamide, buccalin, conopressin, gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), NKY and egg-laying hormone. These data provide a foundation for further studies targeted towards the functional characterisation of neuropeptides to further understand aspects of the biology of the giant triton snail, such as elucidating its reproductive neuroendocrine pathway to allow the development of knowledge based captive breeding programs.

Identification of Genes Differentially Expressed in the Ganglia of GrowingHaliotis asinina

Publisher: National Shellfisheries Association

Date: 11-2010

DOI: 10.2983/035.029.0328

Evidence for a saponin biosynthesis pathway in the body wall of the commercially significant sea cucumber Holothuria scabra

Publisher: MDPI AG

Date: 07-11-2017

DOI: 10.3390/MD15110349

Aplysia seductin is a water-borne protein pheromone that acts in concert with attractin to stimulate mate attraction

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 03-2005

DOI: 10.1016/J.PEPTIDES.2004.10.024

Abstract: Mate attraction in Aplysia involves the long-distance water-borne protein pheromones attractin, enticin, and temptin which are released during egg-laying. Other water-borne pheromones are predicted to act in concert with attractin, enticin, and temptin, but their identities were unknown. We recently identified a highly expressed Aplysia californica albumen gland gene (Alb-23) that encoded a novel protein by differential library screening of an albumen gland cDNA library. To determine whether Alb-23 ('seductin') was a water-borne pheromone, we employed Western blot analysis, purification and expression of albumen gland proteins, immunolocalization studies, pheromone secretion assays, comparative genomics, and behavioral bioassays. Immunoreactive seductin was detected in eluates of egg cordons, indicating that seductin was secreted onto the cordon during egg laying. Aplysia brasiliana seductin was 94% identical to its A.californica homolog. In T-maze attraction assays, the combination of attractin and seductin was significantly attractive to potential mates, whereas either protein alone was not. Data from this and previous studies support the hypothesis that seductin is a water-borne protein pheromone that acts in concert with attractin, enticin, and temptin to attract Aplysia to form and maintain mating aggregations.

Transcriptome analysis reveals differentially expressed genes associated with germ cell and gonad development in the Southern bluefin tuna (Thunnus maccoyii)

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 10-03-2016

DOI: 10.1186/S12864-016-2397-8

Identification of an Attractin-Like Pheromone in the Mucus-Secreting Hypobranchial Gland of the AbaloneHaliotis asininaLinnaeus

Publisher: National Shellfisheries Association

Date: 11-2010

DOI: 10.2983/035.029.0321

Global metabolite analysis of the land snail Theba pisana hemolymph during active and aestivated states

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 09-2016

DOI: 10.1016/J.CBD.2016.05.004

Abstract: The state of metabolic dormancy has fascinated people for hundreds of years, leading to research exploring the identity of natural molecular components that may induce and maintain this state. Many animals lower their metabolism in response to high temperatures and/or arid conditions, a phenomenon called aestivation. The biological significance for this is clear by strongly suppressing metabolic rate to low levels, animals minimize their exposure to stressful conditions. Understanding blood or hemolymph metabolite changes that occur between active and aestivated animals can provide valuable insights relating to those molecular components that regulate hypometabolism in animals, and how they afford adaptation to their different environmental conditions. In this study, we have investigated the hemolymph metabolite composition from the land snail Theba pisana, a remarkably resilient mollusc that displays an annual aestivation period. Using LC-MS-based metabolomics analysis, we have identified those hemolymph metabolites that show significant changes in relative abundance between active and aestivated states. We show that certain metabolites, including some phospholipids [e.g. LysoPC(14:0)], and amino acids such as l-arginine and l-tyrosine, are present at high levels within aestivated snails. Further investigation of our T. pisana RNA-sequencing data elucidated the entire repertoire of phospholipid-synthesis genes in the snail digestive gland, as a precursor towards future comparative investigation between the genetic components of aestivating and non-aestivating species. In summary, we have identified a large number of metabolites that are elevated in the hemolymph of aestivating snails, supporting their role in protecting against heat or desiccation.

Insights into sexual maturation and reproduction in the Norway lobster (nephrops norvegicus) via in silico prediction and characterization of neuropeptides and G protein-coupled receptors

Publisher: Frontiers Media SA

Date: 27-07-2018

DOI: 10.3389/FENDO.2018.00430

Differences in small molecule Neurotransmitter profiles from the crown-of-thorns Seastar radial nerve revealed between sexes and following food-deprivation

Publisher: Frontiers Media SA

Date: 15-10-2018

DOI: 10.3389/FENDO.2018.00551

Structural and functional analysis of Aplysia attractins, a family of water-borne protein pheromones with interspecific attractiveness

Publisher: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences

Date: 26-04-2004

DOI: 10.1073/PNAS.0306339101

Abstract: Mate attraction in Aplysia involves a long-distance water-borne signal (the protein pheromone attractin), which is released during egg laying. Aplysia californica attractin attracts species that produce closely related attractins, such as Aplysia brasiliana , whose geographic distribution does not overlap that of A. californica . This finding suggests that other mollusks release attractin-related pheromones to form and maintain breeding aggregations. We describe four additional members of the attractin family: A. brasiliana , Aplysia fasciata , Aplysia depilans (which aggregates with A. fasciata aggregations), and Aplysia vaccaria (which aggregates with A. californica aggregations). On the basis of their sequence similarity with A. californica attractin, the attractin proteins fall into two groups: A. californica , A. brasiliana , and A. fasciata (91–95% identity), and A. depilans and A. vaccaria (41–43% identity). The sequence similarity within the attractin family, the conserved six cysteines, and the compact fold of the NMR solution structure of A. californica attractin suggest a common fold for this pheromone family containing two antiparallel helices. The second helix contains the IEECKTS sequence conserved in Aplysia attractins. Mutating surface-exposed charged residues within this heptapeptide sequence abolishes attractin activity, suggesting that the second helix is an essential part of the receptor-binding interface.

First report of Kudoa thunni and Kudoa musculoliquefaciens affecting the quality of commercially harvested yellowfin tuna and broadbill swordfish in Eastern Australia

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 11-06-2021

DOI: 10.1007/S00436-021-07206-8

Conservation of the egg-laying hormone neuropeptide and attractin pheromone in the spotted sea hare, Aplysia dactylomela

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 03-2010

DOI: 10.1016/J.PEPTIDES.2009.10.010

Abstract: In the marine opisthobranch mollusc, Aplysia, secreted peptides and proteins play an essential role in egg laying and mate attraction. Aplysia californica egg laying is initiated by secretion of the egg-laying hormone (ELH) peptide while mate attraction is made possible by protein pheromones, such as attractin, released into the surrounding seawater with the egg cordon. In this study, we investigated the existence of similar egg-laying hormone and attractin products in the spotted sea hare, Aplysia dactylomela, a species that is widely distributed in almost all tropical and temperate oceans, including Australia's Great Barrier Reef. Immunological analysis revealed that an ELH-like transmitter is present within bag cell somata and processes of the abdominal ganglion. A molecular genetic approach found that the ELH precursor mRNA is synthesized in the abdominal ganglia and encodes a 36-residue peptide (dELH) that is cleaved from the prohormone prior to secretion. It is most closely related to A. californica and A. brasiliana ELH (91.7% identical). We also found that A. dactylomela synthesize an attractin pheromone in the albumen gland that is released during egg laying. The gene encodes a 58-residue mature protein that is 74.9% similar to A. californica attractin. We demonstrate that an increase in seawater temperature can disrupt attractins higher order interactions, such as those with the pheromone temptin, and accelerates attractin degradation. Together, these findings further expands our understanding of pheromone intermolecular interactions and presents an opportunity for further study of how increases in sea water temperature may affect this important marine communication system.

Molecular identification of candidate chemoreceptor genes and signal transduction components in the sensory epithelium of Aplysia

Publisher: The Company of Biologists

Date: 07-2009

DOI: 10.1242/JEB.026427

Abstract: An ability to sense and respond to environmental cues is essential to the survival of most marine animals. How water-borne chemical cues are detected at the molecular level and processed by molluscs is currently unknown. In this study, we cloned two genes from the marine mollusk Aplysia dactylomela which encode multi-transmembrane proteins. We have performed in situ hybridization that reveals expression and spatial distribution within the long-distance chemosensory organs, the rhinophores. This finding suggests that they could be receptors involved in binding water-borne chemicals and coupling to an intracellular signal pathway. In support of this, we found expression of a phospholipase C and an inositol trisphosphate receptor in the rhinophore sensory epithelia and possibly distributed within outer dendrites of olfactory sensory neurons. In Aplysia, mate attraction and subsequent reproduction is initiated by responding to a cocktail of water-borne protein pheromones released by animal conspecifics. We show that the rhinophore contraction in response to pheromone stimulants is significantly altered following phospholipase C inhibition. Overall, these data provide insight into the molecular components of chemosensory detection in a mollusk. An important next step will be the elucidation of how these coordinate the detection of chemical cues present in the marine environment and activation of sensory neurons.

Comparative Proteomic Study of the Antiproliferative Activity of Frog Host-Defence Peptide Caerin 1.9 and Its Additive Effect with Caerin 1.1 on TC-1 Cells Transformed with HPV16 E6 and E7

Publisher: Hindawi Limited

Date: 2018

DOI: 10.1155/2018/7382351

Abstract: Caerin is a family of peptides isolated from the glandular secretion of Australian tree frogs, the genus Litoria , and has been previously shown to have anticancer activity against several cancer cells. In this work, we used two host-defence peptides, caerin 1.1 and caerin 1.9, to investigate their ability to inhibit a murine derived TC-1 cell transformed with human papillomavirus 16 E6 and E7 growth in vitro . Caerin 1.9 inhibits TC-1 cell proliferation, although inhibition is more pronounced when applied in conjunction with caerin 1.1. To gain further insights into the antiproliferative mechanisms of caerin 1.9 and its additive effect with caerin 1.1, we used a proteomics strategy to quantitatively examine (i) the changes in the protein profiles of TC-1 cells and (ii) the excretory-secretory products of TC-1 cells following caerin peptides treatment. Caerin 1.9 treatment significantly altered the abundance of several immune-related proteins and related pathways, such as the Tec kinase and ILK signalling pathways, as well as the levels of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines. In conclusion, caerin peptides inhibit TC-1 cell proliferation, associated with modification in signalling pathways that would change the tumour microenvironment which is normally immune suppressive.

A Proteomic Analysis for the Red Seaweed Asparagopsis taxiformis

Publisher: MDPI AG

Date: 20-01-2023

DOI: 10.3390/BIOLOGY12020167

Abstract: The red seaweed Asparagopsis taxiformis is a promising ruminant feed additive with anti-methanogenic properties that could contribute to global climate change solutions. Genomics has provided a strong foundation for in-depth molecular investigations, including proteomics. Here, we investigated the proteome of A. taxiformis (Lineage 6) in both sporophyte and gametophyte stages, using soluble and insoluble extraction methods. We identified 741 unique non-redundant proteins using a genome-derived database and 2007 using a transcriptome-derived database, which included numerous proteins predicted to be of fungal origin. We further investigated the genome-derived proteins to focus on seaweed-specific proteins. Ontology analysis indicated a relatively large proportion of ion-binding proteins (i.e., iron, zinc, manganese, potassium and copper), which may play a role in seaweed heavy metal tolerance. In addition, we identified 58 stress-related proteins (e.g., heat shock and vanadium-dependent haloperoxidases) and 44 photosynthesis-related proteins (e.g., phycobilisomes, photosystem I, photosystem II and ATPase), which were in general more abundantly identified from female gametophytes. Forty proteins were predicted to be secreted, including ten rhodophyte collagen-alpha-like proteins (RCAPs), which displayed overall high gene expression levels. These findings provide a comprehensive overview of expressed proteins in A. taxiformis, highlighting the potential for targeted protein extraction and functional characterisation for future biodiscovery.

Identification of a female spawn‐associated Kazal‐type inhibitor from the tropical abalone Haliotis asinina

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 29-06-2016

DOI: 10.1002/PSC.2887

Abstract: Abalone (Haliotis) undergoes a period of reproductive maturation, followed by the synchronous release of gametes, called broadcast spawning. Field and laboratory studies have shown that the tropical species Haliotis asinina undergoes a two-week spawning cycle, thus providing an excellent opportunity to investigate the presence of endogenous spawning-associated peptides. In female H. asinina, we have isolated a peptide (5145 Da) whose relative abundance in hemolymph increases substantially just prior to spawning and is still detected using reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography chromatograms up to 1-day post-spawn. We have isolated this peptide from female hemolymph as well as s les prepared from the gravid female gonad, and demonstrated through comparative sequence analysis that it contains features characteristic of Kazal-type proteinase inhibitors (KPIs). Has-KPI is expressed specifically within the gonad of adult females. A recombinant Has-KPI was generated using a yeast expression system. The recombinant Has-KPI does not induce premature spawning of female H. asinina when administered intramuscularly. However it displays homomeric aggregations and interaction with at least one mollusc-type neuropeptide (LRDFVamide), suggesting a role for it in regulating neuropeptide endocrine communication. This research provides new understanding of a peptide that can regulate reproductive processes in female abalone, which has the potential to lead to the development of greater control over abalone spawning. The findings also highlight the need to further explore abalone reproduction to clearly define a role for novel spawning-associated peptide in sexual maturation and spawning. Copyright © 2016 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Candidate chemoreceptor subfamilies differentially expressed in the chemosensory organs of the mollusc Aplysia

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 04-06-2009

DOI: 10.1186/1741-7007-7-28

The neuropeptidome of the Crown-of-Thorns Starfish, Acanthaster planci

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 08-2017

DOI: 10.1016/J.JPROT.2017.05.026

Abstract: Outbreaks of Crown-of-Thorns Starfish (COTS Acanthaster planci) are a major cause of destruction of coral communities on the Australian Great Barrier Reef. While factors relating to population explosions and the social interactions of COTS have been well studied, little is known about the neural mechanisms underlying COTS physiology and behaviour. One of the major classes of chemical messengers that regulate physiological and behavioural processes in animals is the neuropeptides. Here, we have analysed COTS genome and transcriptome sequence data to identify neuropeptide precursor proteins in this species. A total of 48 neuropeptide precursors were identified, including homologs of neuropeptides that are evolutionarily conserved throughout the Bilateria, and others that are novel. Proteomic mass spectrometry was employed to confirm the presence of neuropeptides in extracts of radial nerve cords. These transcriptomic and proteomic resources provide a foundation for functional studies that will enable a better understanding of COTS physiology and behaviour, and may facilitate development of novel population biocontrol methods. The Crown-of-Thorns Starfish (COTS) is one of the primary factors leading to coral loss on the Great Barrier Reef, Australia. Our combined gene and proteomic findings of this study reveal the COTS neuropeptidome, including both echinoderm-like neuropeptides and novel putative neuropeptides. This represents the most comprehensive neuropeptidome for an echinoderm, contributing to the evolving knowledge of the COTS molecular neurobiology that may assist towards the development of biocontrol methods.

Changes in the neuropeptide content of Biomphalaria ganglia nervous system following Schistosoma infection

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 02-06-2017

DOI: 10.1186/S13071-017-2218-1

The membrane-active amphibian peptide caerin 1.8 inhibits fibril formation of amyloid β1-42

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 11-2015

DOI: 10.1016/J.PEPTIDES.2015.08.004

Abstract: The hibian host-defense peptide caerin 1.8 [(1)GLFKVLGSV(10)AKHLLPHVVP(20)VIAEKL(NH2)] inhibits fibril formation of amyloid β 1-42 [(1)DAEFRHDSG(10)YEVHHQKLVF(20)FAEDVGSNKG(30)AIIGLMVGGV(40)VIA] [Aβ42] (the major precursor of the extracellular fibrillar deposits of Alzheimer's disease). Some truncated forms of caerin 1.8 also inhibit fibril formation of Aβ42. For ex le, caerin 1.8 (1-13) [(1)GLFKVLGSV(10)AKHL(NH2) and caerin 1.8 (22-25) [KVLGSV(10)AKHLLPHVVP(20)VIAEKL(NH2)] show 85% and 75% respectively of the inhibition activity of the parent caerin 1.8. The synthetic peptide KLVFFKKKKKK is a known inhibitor of Aβ42 fibril formation, and was used as a standard in this study. Caerin 1.8 is the more effective fibril inhibitor. IC50 values (± 15%) are caerin 1.8 (75 μM) and KLVFFKKKKKK (370 μM). MALDI mass spectrometry shows the presence of a small peak corresponding to a protonated 1:1 adduct [caerin 1.8/Aβ42]H(+). Molecular dynamics simulation suggests that both hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions between Aβ42 and caerin 1.8 facilitate the formation of a 1:1 complex in water. Fibril formation from Aβ42 has been proposed to be based around the (16)KLVF(20)F region of Aβ42 this region in the 1:1 complex is partially blocked from attachment of a further molecule of Aβ42.

The byssal-producing glands and proteins of the silverlip pearl oyster Pinctada maxima (Jameson, 1901)

Publisher: Informa UK Limited

Date: 07-02-2022

DOI: 10.1080/08927014.2022.2049256

Recombinant production and structural studies of the Aplysia water-borne protein pheromone enticin indicates it has a novel disulfide stabilized fold

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 2007

DOI: 10.1016/J.PEPTIDES.2006.08.027

Abstract: Enticin is one of three Aplysia proteins released during egg laying that act in concert with the pheromone attractin to attract other Aplysia and stimulate mating behavior. Whereas the enticin cDNA predicts a 69-residue mature protein, enticin isolated from the albumen gland was found to be posttranslationally processed in vivo by cleavage at Arg(50) residue to generate a smaller 49-residue mature peptide. The Arg(50) cleavage site is conserved in enticin from both Aplysia californica and Aplysia brasiliana. In order to generate sufficient enticin for structural studies, recombinant full-length protein was produced in a soluble form in Escherichia coli using a cold shock promoter-based protein expression system. The enticin cDNA was cloned into the bacterial vector pCold III, and efficiently expressed, as determined by amino acid microsequence and immunoblot analyses. Recombinant enticin, which contained an additional N-terminal 13-residue translation-enhancing element, was purified by reversed-phase HPLC and compared to enticin isolated from the albumen gland. The three disulfide bonds in enticin were characterized by endoproteinase Glu-C proteolysis followed by mass spectrometric characterization of the fragments. The cysteine pairing, for both recombinant and native enticin, was I-II, III-IV, and V-VI, confirming that the protein produced in the bacterial system was correctly folded. The circular dichroism spectrum of the recombinant protein indicated it was predominantly alpha-helical. While this was consistent with fold recognition server results indicating a fold for enticin similar to that of attractin, the disulfide bonding pattern differs. A model for enticin was prepared based on its helical structure and these disulfide constraints.

Settlement specifics

Publisher: Informa UK Limited

Date: 07-2009

DOI: 10.4161/CIB.2.4.8553

The crown-of-thorns starfish genome as a guide for biocontrol of this coral reef pest

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 04-2017

DOI: 10.1038/NATURE22033

Abstract: The crown-of-thorns starfish (COTS, the Acanthaster planci species group) is a highly fecund predator of reef-building corals throughout the Indo-Pacific region. COTS population outbreaks cause substantial loss of coral cover, diminishing the integrity and resilience of reef ecosystems. Here we sequenced genomes of COTS from the Great Barrier Reef, Australia and Okinawa, Japan to identify gene products that underlie species-specific communication and could potentially be used in biocontrol strategies. We focused on water-borne chemical plumes released from aggregating COTS, which make the normally sedentary starfish become highly active. Peptide sequences detected in these plumes by mass spectrometry are encoded in the COTS genome and expressed in external tissues. The exoproteome released by aggregating COTS consists largely of signalling factors and hydrolytic enzymes, and includes an expanded and rapidly evolving set of starfish-specific ependymin-related proteins. These secreted proteins may be detected by members of a large family of olfactory-receptor-like G-protein-coupled receptors that are expressed externally, sometimes in a sex-specific manner. This study provides insights into COTS-specific communication that may guide the generation of peptide mimetics for use on reefs with COTS outbreaks.

Characterization of Aplysia Enticin and Temptin, Two Novel Water-borne Protein Pheromones That Act in Concert with Attractin to Stimulate Mate Attraction

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 06-2004

DOI: 10.1074/JBC.M313585200

Newly identified water-borne protein pheromones interact with attractin to stimulate mate attraction in Aplysia

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 03-2006

DOI: 10.1016/J.PEPTIDES.2005.08.026

Abstract: The water-borne protein attractin is a potent sex pheromone involved in forming and maintaining mating and egg-laying aggregations in the marine mollusk Aplysia. Binary blends of attractin and either enticin, temptin, or seductin, three other Aplysia protein pheromones, stimulate mate attraction. The four pheromones are thought to act in concert during egg-laying. The new data presented here show that: (1) the water-borne odor of non-laying Aplysia brasiliana further increases the attractiveness of attractin and of eggs in T-maze bioassays. This suggests that in idual Aplysia release additional factors that enhance the effects of attractin, enticin, temptin, and seductin during egg-laying (2) the N-terminal region of enticin aligns well with the conserved epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like domain of mammalian reproductive proteins known as fertilins, which may mediate intercellular adhesion interactions between eggs and sperm (3) temptin, according to fold recognition servers, may also have an EGF-like fold. Enticin and temptin also have conserved metal binding sequences that may play a role in their signaling behavior. These results suggest that aspects of mammalian egg-sperm interactions (fertilins) may have evolved from pheromonal signaling mechanisms. We also review the structure, expression, localization, release, and behavioral actions of attractin, enticin, temptin, and seductin.

Identification of Genes Associated with Reproduction in the Mud Crab (Scylla olivacea) and Their Differential Expression following Serotonin Stimulation

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 26-12-2014

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PONE.0115867

A new look at the construct validity of the Kessler K6 using Rasch analysis

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 16-01-2014

DOI: 10.1002/MPR.1431

Investigation the possibility of using peptides with a helical repeating pattern of hydro-phobic and hydrophilic residues to inhibit IL-10

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 21-04-2016

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PONE.0153939

Molecular characterization of sdf1 and cxcr4 in the Mozambique tilapia, Oreochromis mossambicus

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 2017

DOI: 10.1016/J.ANIREPROSCI.2016.11.007

Abstract: Animal sexual reproduction relies on primordial germ cells (PGCs), the predecessors of the germ cell lineage, giving rise to either spermatogonia or oogonia after the completion of gonadal differentiation. There is limited information on the mechanism of PGC migration leading to the formation of the primordial gonad in Perciform fish. Oreochromis mossambicus, a tilapiine species, was investigated that is a commercially important aquaculture species in many parts of the world while in other areas it has become an invasive pest. Key components involved in PGC migration were identified, including the stromal-cell derived factor 1 (Om-sdf1a, Om-sdf1b) and the CXC receptor 4 (Om-cxcr4): both share conservation with existing model species. The spatial gene expression profiles were determined through transcript and protein analysis and displayed distinct localisation within the region of the developing gonad in larvae and within the adult gonads of certain cell populations. A recombinant Om-sdf1a was produced in Escherichia coli that activates Om-cxcr4 using a BRET-based yeast in vitro assay system, suggesting that it is structurally similar to the native Om-sdf1a and is appropriate for further structural studies. This study has improved understanding of the molecular basis of tilapia reproduction through investigation of gonad development, which may be important in the progression towards reproductive suppression methods to control tilapia populations in the wild. In addition, this research will facilitate developments in germ cell transplantation, an innovative technique that harnesses germ cell migration and allows the uptake of foreign germ cells, which differentiate to produce sperm or ova.

Marked changes in neuropeptide expression accompany broadcast spawnings in the gastropod Haliotis asinina

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 09-05-2012

DOI: 10.1186/1742-9994-9-9

Abstract: A huge ersity of marine species reproduce by synchronously spawning their gametes into the water column. Although this species-specific event typically occurs in a particular season, the precise time and day of spawning often can not be predicted. There is little understanding of how the environment (e.g. water temperature, day length, tidal and lunar cycle) regulates a population’s reproductive physiology to synchronise a spawning event. The Indo-Pacific tropical abalone, Haliotis asinina , has a highly predictable spawning cycle, where in iduals release gametes on the evenings of spring high tides on new and full moons during the warmer half of the year. These calculable spawning events uniquely allow for the analysis of the molecular and cellular processes underlying reproduction. Here we characterise neuropeptides produced in H. asinina ganglia that are known in egg-laying molluscs to control vital aspects of reproduction. We demonstrate that genes encoding APGWamide, myomodulin, the putative proctolin homologue whitnin, FMRFamide, a schistosomin-like peptide (SLP), a molluscan insulin-related peptide (MIP) and a haliotid growth-associated peptide (HGAP) all are differentially expressed in the anterior ganglia during the two week spawning cycle in both male and female abalone. Each gene has a unique and sex-specific expression profile. Despite these differences, expression levels in most of the genes peak at or within 12 h of the spawning event. In contrast, lowest levels of transcript abundance typically occurs 36 h before and 24 h after spawning, with differences in peak and low expression levels being most pronounced in genes orthologous to known molluscan reproduction neuromodulators. Exploiting the predictable semi-lunar spawning cycle of the gastropod H. asinina , we have identified a suite of evolutionarily-conserved, mollusc-specific and rapidly-evolving neuropeptides that appear to contribute to the regulation of spawning. Dramatic increases and decreases in ganglionic neuropeptide expression levels from 36 h before to 24 h after the broadcast spawning event are consistent with these peptides having a regulatory role in translating environmental signals experienced by a population into a synchronous physiological output, in this case, the release of gametes.

Molecular insights into land snail neuropeptides through transcriptome and comparative gene analysis

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 17-04-2015

DOI: 10.1186/S12864-015-1510-8

What physical activity contexts do adults with psychological distress prefer?

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 09-2013

DOI: 10.1016/J.JSAMS.2012.10.007

Abstract: Physical activity can promote well-being and assist in the prevention and management of psychological symptoms. The aim of this study was to identify what physical activity contexts are preferred by adults with psychosocial difficulties. Cross-sectional population based study. Data were from a mail survey of 7873 adults aged 42-67 years. Psychosocial difficulties were assessed using the Kessler6, and categorized as no distress (0-7) or distress (8-24). Respondents indicated the extent to which they disagreed or agreed with a preference for each of 14 activity contexts, and were categorized as disagree, no preference, or agree. Data were analyzed using (1) descriptive statistics and (2) multi-level multinomial logistic regression with adjustment for sociodemographic and health variables adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals are reported. Approximately 12% of respondents were categorized as psychologically distressed. Over 60% of distressed respondents disagreed with a preference for competitive activities and agreed with a preference for activities that can be done close to home, involve little or no cost, can be done alone, are done outdoors, and that are not just about exercise. Distressed respondents had higher odds to prefer supervised activities (1.64 1.32-2.03), activities done with people of the same sex (1.41 1.12-1.78), and activities done at a fixed time with scheduled sessions (1.32 1.08-1.62) than those without distress. Mid-aged adults with psychological distress have specific physical activity context preferences. These preferences could be incorporated into the planning and promotion of physical activity opportunities for people with psychosocial difficulties.

Distribution of serotonin and dopamine in the central nervous system of the female mud crab, Scylla olivacea (Herbst)

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 03-2015

DOI: 10.1016/J.ACTHIS.2014.12.006

Abstract: In crustaceans serotonin (5-HT) and dopamine (DA) are neurotransmitters that play roles in the modulation of numerous physiological functions, including reproduction. However, in the mud crab, Scylla olivacea, the distributions of 5-HT and DA in the CNS have not yet been investigated. The aim of our study was to map the distributions of these two neurotransmitters in the central nervous system (CNS) of the female of this crab during the late stage of ovarian development. We found 5-HT immunoreactivity (-ir) and DA-ir in many parts of the CNS, including the eyestalk, brain, and thoracic ganglia. In the eyestalk, 5-HT-ir was localized in the medulla terminalis (MT), hemi-ellipsoid body (HB), and protocerebral tract (PT), whereas DA-ir was present in neuronal cluster 1, the LG neuropils, and PT. In the brain, 5-HT-ir and DA-ir were detected in cells and fibers of neuronal clusters 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 14, and 15. In the ventral nerve cord, 5-HT-ir was present in neurons of the abdominal ganglia, whereas DA was only present in fibers. These spatial distributions of 5-HT and DA suggest that they may be involved in the neuromodulation of important physiological functions, including ovarian maturation, as shown in other non-crab decapods.

Small-scale capture, transport and tank adaptation of live, medium-sized Scombrids using “Tuna Tubes”

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 13-10-2015

DOI: 10.1186/S40064-015-1391-Y

Ovi-protective mothers: exploring the proteomic profile of weevil (Gonipterus) egg capsules

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 09-2022

DOI: 10.1016/J.HELIYON.2022.E10516

Integrative proteomic analysis reveals potential high-frequency alternative open reading frame-encoded peptides in human colorectal cancer

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 12-2018

DOI: 10.1016/J.LFS.2018.11.018

Abstract: Identification of alternative open reading frame-encoded peptides (AEPs) for the diagnosis of colorectal cancer at the proteome level is largely unexplored because of a lack of comprehensive proteomics data. Here, we performed a comprehensive integrative analysis of mass spectral data published by Clinical Proteomic Tumor Analysis Consortium and characterized 93 high-confident AEPs encoded within 75 genes. There are four cancer-related genes appeared to have AEPs identified frequently in >20 out of 95 colorectal cancer s les, including ABCF2, AR, RBM10 and NRG1. Further network analysis of the identified AEPs found the enrichment of novel AEPs within hormone androgen receptor and a highly-modularised network with 42 genes associated with patient survival. Our results not only suggested a mechanistic view of how AEPs work in cancer progression, but also shed light on somatic amino acid mutations in AEPs, which might be overlooked previously because of their low frequencies. In particular, potential high-frequency mutations in 77 s les associated with EDARADD may contribute to the discovery of new biomarkers and the development of innovative therapeutic approaches.

Proteomic analysis of the venom and venom sac of the woodwasp, Sirex noctilio - Towards understanding its biological impact

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 09-2016

DOI: 10.1016/J.JPROT.2016.07.002

Abstract: The European horntail woodwasp, Sirex noctilio, is an invasive insect that attacks conifer hosts, particularly Pinus species. Venom injected by female S. noctilio, together with its symbiotic fungus, damages the normal physiology of Pinus, leading to death of the tree. To identify the proteinaceous components in the venom and uncover the interplay between venom proteins and tree proteins, clarification of the overall profile of proteins produced in the venom gland apparatus was carried out in this work. The venom sac proteome utilised in-solution digested in either a natural or deglycosylated state, prior to nanoHPLC LTQ-Orbitrap under CID/ETD mode. Here, we report the identification of 1454 and 1225 proteins in venom and sac, respectively, with 410 mutual proteins. Approximately 90 proteins were predicted to be secretory, of which 8 have features characteristic of toxins. Chemosensory binding proteins were also identified. Gene ontology and KEGG pathway analysis were employed to predict the protein functions and biological pathways in venom and sac. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis suggested that one-step responses represent the majority of the Sirex-Pinus PPIs, and the proteins representing network hub nodes could be of importance for the development of pest management strategies. The woodwasp Sirex noctilio is an invasive species in many parts of the world, including Australia and North America, where it is considered within the top 10 most serious forest insects. Where they have been introduced, the female woodwasps attack living pine trees, causing significant economic losses. Central to this destruction is the woodwasp's life cycle requirement to bore a hole to deposit eggs and a toxic mucus that disables the tree's network for transporting water and nutrients, yet aids in larval survival. Here we specifically examine the mucus gland apparatus and its contents, revealing the protein components that together with 'noctilisin' facilitate this complex association. The identification of chemosensory binding proteins further supports a role for the woodwasp ovipositor as an instrument for early stages of host tree selection. These findings could provide important clues towards the development of novel control tools against this pest.

Structure and proteomic analysis of the crown-of-thorns starfish (Acanthaster sp.) radial nerve cord

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 27-02-2023

DOI: 10.1038/S41598-023-30425-1

Abstract: The nervous system of the Asteroidea (starfish or seastar) consists of radial nerve cords (RNCs) that interconnect with a ring nerve. Despite its relative simplicity, it facilitates the movement of multiple arms and numerous tube feet, as well as regeneration of damaged limbs. Here, we investigated the RNC ultrastructure and its molecular components within the of Pacific crown-of-thorns starfish (COTS Acanthaster sp .), a well-known coral predator that in high-density outbreaks has major ecological impacts on coral reefs. We describe the presence of an array of unique small bulbous bulbs (40–100 μm diameter) that project from the ectoneural region of the adult RNC. Each comprise large secretory-like cells and prominent cilia. In contrast, juvenile COTS and its congener Acanthaster brevispinus lack these features, both of which are non-corallivorous. Proteomic analysis of the RNC (and isolated neural bulbs) provides the first comprehensive echinoderm protein database for neural tissue, including numerous secreted proteins associated with signalling, transport and defence. The neural bulbs contained several neuropeptides (e.g., bombyxin-type, starfish myorelaxant peptide, secretogranin 7B2-like, Ap15a-like, and ApNp35) and Deleted in Malignant Brain Tumor 1-like proteins. In summary, this study provides a new insight into the novel traits of COTS, a major pest on coral reefs, and a proteomics resource that can be used to develop (bio)control strategies and understand molecular mechanisms of regeneration.

Transcriptomic characterization and curation of candidate neuropeptides regulating reproduction in the eyestalk ganglia of the Australian crayfish, Cherax quadricarinatus

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 07-12-2016

DOI: 10.1038/SREP38658

Abstract: The Australian redclaw crayfish ( Cherax quadricarinatus ) has recently received attention as an emerging candidate for sustainable aquaculture production in Australia and worldwide. More importantly, C. quadricarinatus serves as a good model organism for the commercially important group of decapod crustaceans as it is distributed worldwide, easy to maintain in the laboratory and its reproductive cycle has been well documented. In order to better understand the key reproduction and development regulating mechanisms in decapod crustaceans, the molecular toolkit available for model organisms such as C. quadricarinatus must be expanded. However, there has been no study undertaken to establish the C. quadricarinatus neuropeptidome. Here we report a comprehensive study of the neuropeptide genes expressed in the eyestalk in the Australian crayfish C. quadricarinatus . We characterised 53 putative neuropeptide-encoding transcripts based on key features of neuropeptides as characterised in other species. Of those, 14 neuropeptides implicated in reproduction regulation were chosen for assessment of their tissue distribution using RT-PCR. Further insights are discussed in relation to current knowledge of neuropeptides in other species and potential follow up studies. Overall, the resulting data lays the foundation for future gene-based neuroendocrinology studies in C. quadricarinatus .

Primordial germ cell migration in the yellowtail kingfish (Seriola lalandi) and identification of stromal cell-derived factor 1

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 03-2015

DOI: 10.1016/J.YGCEN.2015.02.007

Abstract: Primordial germ cells (PGCs) are progenitors of the germ cell lineage, giving rise to either spermatogonia or oogonia after the completion of gonadal differentiation. Currently, there is little information on the mechanism of PGCs migration leading to the formation of the primordial gonad in perciform fish. Yellowtail kingfish (Seriola lalandi) (YTK) (order Perciforms) inhabit tropical and temperate waters in the southern hemisphere. Fundamental details into the molecular basis of larval development in this species can be easily studied in Australia, as they are commercially cultured and readily available. In this study, histological analysis of YTK larvae revealed critical time points for the migration of PGCs to the genital ridge, resulting in the subsequent development of the primordial gonad. In YTK larvae at 3, 5, 7 and 10 days post hatch (DPH), PGCs were not yet enclosed by somatic cells, indicating the primordial gonad had not yet started to form. While at 15, 18 and 20 DPH PGCs had already settled at the genital ridge and started to become enclosed by somatic cells indicating the primordial gonad had started to develop. A higher number of PGCs were observed in the larvae at 15 and 18 DPH indicating PGCs proliferation, which corresponds with them becoming enclosed by the somatic cells. Directional migration of PGCs toward the genital ridge is a critical event in the subsequent development of a gonad. In zebrafish, mouse and chicken, stromal-cell derived factor (SDF1) signalling is one of the key molecules for PGC migration. We subsequently isolated from YTK the SDF1 (Slal-SDF1) gene, which encodes for a 98-residue precursor protein with a signal peptide at the N-terminus. There is spatial conservation between fish species of four cysteine residues at positions C9, C11, C34 and C49, expected to form disulphide bonds and stabilize the SDF structure. In YTK, Slal-SDF1 gene expression analyses shows that this gene is expressed in larvae from 1 to 22 DPH and demonstrates distinct spatial localisation in the larvae at 7 DPH. These results provide a platform for further studies into the molecular machinery of PGC migration in yellowtail kingfish, as well as other perciform fish species.

Copy number alteration of neuropeptides and receptors in multiple cancers

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 04-07-2017

DOI: 10.1038/S41598-017-04832-0

Abstract: Neuropeptides are peptide hormones used as chemical signals by the neuroendocrine system to communicate between cells. Recently, neuropeptides have been recognized for their ability to act as potent cellular growth factors on many cell types, including cancer cells. However, the molecular mechanism for how this occurs is unknown. To clarify the relationship between neuropeptides and cancer, we manually curated a total of 127 human neuropeptide genes by integrating information from the literature, homologous sequences, and database searches. Using human ligand-receptor interaction data, we first identified an interactome of 226 interaction pairs between 93 neuropeptides and 133 G-protein coupled receptors. We further identified four neuropeptide-receptor functional modules with ten or more genes, all of which were highly mutated in multiple cancers. We have identified a number of neuropeptide signaling systems with both oncogenic and tumour-suppressing roles for cancer progression, such as the insulin-like growth factors. By focusing on the neuroendocrine prostate cancer mutational data, we found prevalent lification of neuropeptide and receptors in about 72% of s les. In summary, we report the first observation of abundant copy number variations on neuropeptides and receptors, which will be valuable for the design of peptide-based cancer prognosis, diagnosis and treatment.

Inhibitory mechanism of peptides with a repeating hydrophobic and hydrophilic residue pattern on interleukin-10

Publisher: Informa UK Limited

Date: 29-09-2017

DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2016.1238537

Characterization of red pigment concentrating hormone (RPCH) in the female mud crab (Scylla olivacea) and the effect of 5-HT on its expression

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 05-2013

DOI: 10.1016/J.YGCEN.2013.01.011

Abstract: Red pigment concentrating hormone (RPCH) is a member of the chromatophorotropic hormones and, in crustaceans, it is synthesized in the eyestalk. We have isolated a full-length cDNA for a RPCH preprohormone gene (Scyol-RPCH) from the eyestalks of female mud crabs, Scylla olivacea. The open reading frame consists of 642 nucleotides, and encodes a deduced 108 amino acid precursor protein, which includes a signal peptide, the RPCH (pQLNFSPGWamide), and an associated peptide. We show that the mud crab RPCH peptide exhibits 100% identity with 15 other decapods. Expression of Scyol-RPCH within adult mud crab takes place in the eyestalk, brain, and ventral nerve cord, comprising subesophageal ganglion, thoracic ganglion, and abdominal ganglion. In situ hybridization demonstrates specific expression within neuronal clusters 1, 2, 3, and 4 of the eyestalk X-organ, clusters 6, 8, 9, 10, and 17 of the brain, and in neuronal clusters of the ventral nerve cord. We found that administration of 5-HT up-regulates RPCH gene expression in the eyestalk, suggesting that RPCH may play a role as a downstream hormone of 5-HT.

Spermatophore affects the egg-spawning and egg-carrying behavior in the female giant freshwater prawn, Macrobrachium rosenbergii

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 10-2015

DOI: 10.1016/J.ANIREPROSCI.2015.08.015

Abstract: In crustaceans, mating occurs during the ecdysis after female molting. During this period, a male transfers its spermatophore into a female which, in some species, stores the spermatophore for a long period prior to spawning and fertilization. However, in some species including the giant freshwater prawn, Macrobrachium rosenbergii, the male deposits its spermataphore onto the external surface of the thoracic segment of the female which affects the spawning time and maternal behavior. This study investigated the spawning behavior of the M. rosenbergii females, which was ided into pre-spawning, spawning, and post-spawning phases. It was revealed that mated female prawns with attached spermatophore exhibited an earlier spawning than unmated in iduals, leading to assessment of the factors that may elicit this phenomenon. Four groups of female prawns were allocated to groups including mating females with spermatophore still attached, mating females with the spermatophore removed, artificially inseminated females with spermatophores, and an unmated control. There was a significant reduction in the time of egg-spawning in the presence of spermatophores, and the mating activity was also a contributing factor. Furthermore, over 90% of the mated and artificially inseminated females in which spermatophores were deposited carried the eggs in the abdominal brood chamber until completion of embryonic development while others discarded the eggs within 2 days post-spawning. This study implies that the spermatophore may contain ovulation-inducing factors which stimulate an earlier spawning and fostering of brooding behavior.

Steroids and genes related to steroid biosynthesis in the female giant freshwater prawn, Macrobrachium rosenbergii

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 03-2016

DOI: 10.1016/J.STEROIDS.2016.01.006

Abstract: The giant freshwater prawn, Macrobrachium rosenbergii, is important to many Asian countries due to its high economic value as an aquaculture product. With demand increasing, there is requirement for a better understanding of the biosynthetic components that regulate its growth and reproduction, including steroids, in order to help increase production. Vertebrate-type steroids and their receptors were identified in crustaceans and implicated in reproduction. In this study, we presented the sex steroids estradiol and progesterone by LC-MS/MS in female M. rosenbergii, and reveal steroidogenic-related genes by in silico analysis of de novo assembled transcriptomes. Comparative analysis with other species was performed to confirm their putative role, as well as tissue-specific and quantitative gene expression. We reveal 29 transcripts that encode for steroidogenic-related proteins, including steroidogenic enzymes, a nuclear steroid hormone receptors, and a steroidogenic factor. Moreover, we identified for the first time the presence of steroidogenic factor 1, StAR-related lipid transfer protein, estradiol receptor- and progesterone-like protein in M. rosenbergii. Those targeted for gene expression analysis (3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, 17 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, estrogen sulfotransferase and progesterone receptor-like) showed widespread expression within many tissues, and at relatively high levels in the central nervous system (CNS) during ovarian maturation. In summary, we provide further evidence for the existence of steroidogenic pathways in crustaceans, which may be useful for advancing prawn aquaculture.

The effects of biogenic amines, gonadotropin-releasing hormones and corazonin on spermatogenesis in sexually mature small giant freshwater prawns, Macrobrachium rosenbergii (De Man, 1879)

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 11-2011

DOI: 10.1016/J.AQUACULTURE.2011.08.022

Pheromones, attractants and other chemical cues of aquatic organisms and amphibians

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2012

DOI: 10.1039/C2NP00102K

Abstract: This review covers the subject of pheromones, attractants and other chemical cues of aquatic invertebrates, fishes and hibians (including salamanders and anurans). Major topics include the sex pheromones of gastropods, salamanders and a giant tree frog, and the conspecific attraction of sperm to ova of some of the organisms and animals described in this review.

Multiomics analysis of the giant triton snail salivary gland, a crown-of-thorns starfish predator

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 20-07-2017

DOI: 10.1038/S41598-017-05974-X

Abstract: The giant triton snail ( Charonia tritonis ) is one of the few natural predators of the adult Crown-of-Thorns starfish (COTS), a corallivore that has been damaging to many reefs in the Indo-Pacific. Charonia species have large salivary glands (SGs) that are suspected to produce either a venom and/or sulphuric acid which can immobilize their prey and neutralize the intrinsic toxic properties of COTS. To date, there is little information on the types of toxins produced by tritons. In this paper, the predatory behaviour of the C. tritonis is described. Then, the C. tritonis SG, which itself is made up of an anterior lobe (AL) and posterior lobe (PL), was analyzed using an integrated transcriptomics and proteomics approach, to identify putative toxin- and feeding-related proteins. A de novo transcriptome database and in silico protein analysis predicts that ~3800 proteins have features consistent with being secreted. A gland-specific proteomics analysis confirmed the presence of numerous SG-AL and SG-PL proteins, including those with similarity to cysteine-rich venom proteins. Sulfuric acid biosynthesis enzymes were identified, specific to the SG-PL. Our analysis of the C. tritonis SG (AL and PL) has provided a deeper insight into the biomolecular toolkit used for predation and feeding by C. tritonis .

Ionotropic Receptors Identified within the Tentacle of the Freshwater Snail Biomphalaria glabrata, an Intermediate Host of Schistosoma mansoni

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 02-06-2016

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PONE.0156380

Biomolecular changes that occur in the antennal gland of the giant freshwater prawn (Machrobrachium rosenbergii)

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 29-06-2017

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PONE.0177064

University Of The Sunshine Coast

Location: Australia

View Organisation

Discovery Projects - Grant ID: DP120104360

Start Date: 2012

End Date: 03-2015

Amount: $145,000.00

Funder: Australian Research Council

Discovery Projects - Grant ID: DP130102543

Start Date: 05-2013

End Date: 12-2016

Amount: $454,000.00

Funder: Australian Research Council

Discovery Projects - Grant ID: DP200103013

Start Date: 03-2020

End Date: 03-2024

Amount: $425,766.00

Funder: Australian Research Council

ARC Future Fellowships - Grant ID: FT110100990

Start Date: 2012

End Date: 12-2015

Amount: $656,377.00

Funder: Australian Research Council

Discovery Projects - Grant ID: DP0667070

Start Date: 2006

End Date: 12-2009

Amount: $205,000.00

Funder: Australian Research Council

Discovery Projects - Grant ID: DP220103933

Start Date: 2022

End Date: 12-2024

Amount: $568,152.00

Funder: Australian Research Council

Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment And Facilities - Grant ID: LE120100128

Start Date: 03-2012

End Date: 12-2013

Amount: $237,000.00

Funder: Australian Research Council

Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment And Facilities - Grant ID: LE220100068

Start Date: 04-2022

End Date: 12-2023

Amount: $727,596.00

Funder: Australian Research Council

Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment And Facilities - Grant ID: LE170100158

Start Date: 05-2017

End Date: 05-2018

Amount: $470,000.00

Funder: Australian Research Council

Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment And Facilities - Grant ID: LE170100192

Start Date: 05-2017

End Date: 12-2017

Amount: $450,000.00

Funder: Australian Research Council

Discovery Projects - Grant ID: DP180103694

Start Date: 01-2018

End Date: 03-2021

Amount: $270,012.00

Funder: Australian Research Council

Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment And Facilities - Grant ID: LE200100140

Start Date: 03-2020

End Date: 06-2021

Amount: $945,000.00

Funder: Australian Research Council

Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment And Facilities - Grant ID: LE140100119

Start Date: 2014

End Date: 12-2015

Amount: $2,000,000.00

Funder: Australian Research Council

Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment And Facilities - Grant ID: LE230100128

Start Date: 02-2023

End Date: 02-2024

Amount: $1,078,770.00

Funder: Australian Research Council