1
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Istiban MN, De Fruyt N, Kenis S, Beets I. Evolutionary conserved peptide and glycoprotein hormone-like neuroendocrine systems in C. elegans. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2024; 584:112162. [PMID: 38290646 PMCID: PMC11004728 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2024.112162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Peptides and protein hormones form the largest group of secreted signals that mediate intercellular communication and are central regulators of physiology and behavior in all animals. Phylogenetic analyses and biochemical identifications of peptide-receptor systems reveal a broad evolutionary conservation of these signaling systems at the molecular level. Substantial progress has been made in recent years on characterizing the physiological and putative ancestral roles of many peptide systems through comparative studies in invertebrate models. Several peptides and protein hormones are not only molecularly conserved but also have conserved roles across animal phyla. Here, we focus on functional insights gained in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans that, with its compact and well-described nervous system, provides a powerful model to dissect neuroendocrine signaling networks involved in the control of physiology and behavior. We summarize recent discoveries on the evolutionary conservation and knowledge on the functions of peptide and protein hormone systems in C. elegans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Majdulin Nabil Istiban
- Neural Signaling and Circuit Plasticity, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Nathan De Fruyt
- Neural Signaling and Circuit Plasticity, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Signe Kenis
- Neural Signaling and Circuit Plasticity, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Isabel Beets
- Neural Signaling and Circuit Plasticity, Department of Biology, KU Leuven, 3000, Leuven, Belgium.
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2
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Taniguchi S, Nakayama S, Iguchi R, Sasakura Y, Satake H, Wada S, Suzuki N, Ogasawara M, Sekiguchi T. Distribution of cionin, a cholecystokinin/gastrin family peptide, and its receptor in the central nervous system of Ciona intestinalis type A. Sci Rep 2024; 14:6277. [PMID: 38491056 PMCID: PMC10942981 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-55908-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
The cholecystokinin (CCK)/gastrin family peptides are involved in regulation of feeding and digestion in vertebrates. In the ascidian Ciona intestinalis type A (Ciona robusta), cionin, a CCK/gastrin family peptide, has been identified. Cionin is expressed exclusively in the central nervous system (CNS). In contrast, cionin receptor expression has been detected in the CNS, digestive tract, and ovary. Although cionin has been reported to be involved in ovulation, its physiological function in the CNS remains to be investigated. To elucidate its neural function, in the present study, we analyzed the expression of cionin and cionin receptors in the CNS. Cionin was expressed mainly in neurons residing in the anterior region of the cerebral ganglion. In contrast, the gene expressin of the cionin receptor gene CioR1, was detected in the middle part of the cerebral ganglion and showed a similar expression pattern to that of VACHT, a cholinergic neuron marker gene. Moreover, CioR1 was found to be expressed in cholinergic neurons. Consequently, these results suggest that cionin interacts with cholinergic neurons as a neurotransmitter or neuromodulator via CioR1. This study provides insights into a biological role of a CCK/gastrin family peptide in the CNS of ascidians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiho Taniguchi
- Noto Marine Laboratory, Institute of Nature and Environmental Technology, Kanazawa University, Ogi, Noto-Cho, Ishikawa, 927-0553, Japan
| | - Satoshi Nakayama
- Department of Biology, Graduate School of Science, Chiba University, 1-33 Yayoi-Cho, Inage-Ku, Chiba, 263-8522, Japan
| | - Rin Iguchi
- Department of Biology, Graduate School of Science, Chiba University, 1-33 Yayoi-Cho, Inage-Ku, Chiba, 263-8522, Japan
| | - Yasunori Sasakura
- Shimoda Marine Research Center, University of Tsukuba, 5-10-1 Shimoda, Shizuoka, 415-0025, Japan
| | - Honoo Satake
- Bioorganic Research Institute, Suntory Foundation for Life Sciences, Seikacho, Kyoto, 619-0284, Japan
| | - Shuichi Wada
- Department of Animal Bioscience, Faculty of Bioscience, Nagahama Institute of Bio-Science and Technology, Nagahama, Shiga, 526-0829, Japan
| | - Nobuo Suzuki
- Noto Marine Laboratory, Institute of Nature and Environmental Technology, Kanazawa University, Ogi, Noto-Cho, Ishikawa, 927-0553, Japan
| | - Michio Ogasawara
- Department of Biology, Graduate School of Science, Chiba University, 1-33 Yayoi-Cho, Inage-Ku, Chiba, 263-8522, Japan
| | - Toshio Sekiguchi
- Noto Marine Laboratory, Institute of Nature and Environmental Technology, Kanazawa University, Ogi, Noto-Cho, Ishikawa, 927-0553, Japan.
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3
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Satake H, Sasakura Y. The neuroendocrine system of Ciona intestinalis Type A, a deuterostome invertebrate and the closest relative of vertebrates. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2024; 582:112122. [PMID: 38109989 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2023.112122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
Deuterostome invertebrates, including echinoderms, hemichordates, cephalochordates, and urochordates, exhibit common and species-specific morphological, developmental, physiological, and behavioral characteristics that are regulated by neuroendocrine and nervous systems. Over the past 15 years, omics, genetic, and/or physiological studies on deuterostome invertebrates have identified low-molecular-weight transmitters, neuropeptides and their cognate receptors, and have clarified their various biological functions. In particular, there has been increasing interest on the neuroendocrine and nervous systems of Ciona intestinalis Type A, which belongs to the subphylum Urochordata and occupies the critical phylogenetic position as the closest relative of vertebrates. During the developmental stage, gamma-aminobutylic acid, D-serine, and gonadotropin-releasing hormones regulate metamorphosis of Ciona. In adults, the neuropeptidergic mechanisms underlying ovarian follicle growth, oocyte maturation, and ovulation have been elucidated. This review article provides the most recent and fundamental knowledge of the neuroendocrine and nervous systems of Ciona, and their evolutionary aspects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Honoo Satake
- Bioorganic Research Institute, Suntory Foundation for Life Sciences, Kyoto, Japan.
| | - Yasunori Sasakura
- Shimoda Marine Research Center, University of Tsukuba, Shizuoka, Japan
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4
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Liu H, Chen M. Morphology and Chemical Messenger Regulation of Echinoderm Muscles. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:1349. [PMID: 37887059 PMCID: PMC10603993 DOI: 10.3390/biology12101349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
The muscular systems of echinoderms play important roles in various physiological and behavioral processes, including feeding, reproduction, movement, respiration, and excretion. Like vertebrates, echinoderm muscle systems can be subdivided into two major divisions, somatic and visceral musculature. The former usually has a myoepithelial organization, while the latter contains muscle bundles formed by the aggregation of myocytes. Neurons and their processes are also detected between these myoepithelial cells and myocytes, which are capable of releasing a variety of neurotransmitters and neuropeptides to regulate muscle activity. Although many studies have reported the pharmacological effects of these chemical messengers on various muscles of echinoderms, there has been limited research on their receptors and their signaling pathways. The muscle physiology of echinoderms is similar to that of chordates, both of which have the deuterostome mode of development. Studies of muscle regulation in echinoderms can provide new insights into the evolution of myoregulatory systems in deuterostomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Muyan Chen
- The Key Laboratory of Mariculture, Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China;
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5
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Beets I, Zels S, Vandewyer E, Demeulemeester J, Caers J, Baytemur E, Courtney A, Golinelli L, Hasakioğulları İ, Schafer WR, Vértes PE, Mirabeau O, Schoofs L. System-wide mapping of peptide-GPCR interactions in C. elegans. Cell Rep 2023; 42:113058. [PMID: 37656621 PMCID: PMC7615250 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.113058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuropeptides and peptide hormones are ancient, widespread signaling molecules that underpin almost all brain functions. They constitute a broad ligand-receptor network, mainly by binding to G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). However, the organization of the peptidergic network and roles of many peptides remain elusive, as our insight into peptide-receptor interactions is limited and many peptide GPCRs are still orphan receptors. Here we report a genome-wide peptide-GPCR interaction map in Caenorhabditis elegans. By reverse pharmacology screening of over 55,384 possible interactions, we identify 461 cognate peptide-GPCR couples that uncover a broad signaling network with specific and complex combinatorial interactions encoded across and within single peptidergic genes. These interactions provide insights into peptide functions and evolution. Combining our dataset with phylogenetic analysis supports peptide-receptor co-evolution and conservation of at least 14 bilaterian peptidergic systems in C. elegans. This resource lays a foundation for system-wide analysis of the peptidergic network.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Beets
- Department of Biology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Sven Zels
- Department of Biology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Jonas Demeulemeester
- The Francis Crick Institute, London NW1 1AT, UK; VIB - KU Leuven Center for Cancer Biology, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jelle Caers
- Department of Biology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Esra Baytemur
- Department of Biology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Amy Courtney
- Neurobiology Division, MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge CB2 0QH, UK
| | | | | | - William R Schafer
- Neurobiology Division, MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge CB2 0QH, UK
| | - Petra E Vértes
- Department of Psychiatry, Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EB, UK
| | - Olivier Mirabeau
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Bioinformatics and Biostatistics Hub, Inserm U1224, Brain-Immune Communication Lab, 75015 Paris, France
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6
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Feng Y, Piñon Gonzalez VM, Lin M, Egertová M, Mita M, Elphick MR. Localization of relaxin-like gonad-stimulating peptide expression in starfish reveals the gonoducts as a source for its role as a regulator of spawning. J Comp Neurol 2023; 531:1299-1316. [PMID: 37212624 PMCID: PMC10952978 DOI: 10.1002/cne.25496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Oocyte maturation and gamete release (spawning) in starfish are triggered by relaxin-like gonad-stimulating peptide (RGP), a neuropeptide that was first isolated from the radial nerve cords of these animals. Hitherto, it has generally been assumed that the radial nerve cords are the source of RGP that triggers spawning physiologically. To investigate other sources of RGP, here we report the first comprehensive anatomical analysis of its expression, using both in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry to map RGP precursor transcripts and RGP, respectively, in the starfish Asterias rubens. Cells expressing RGP precursor transcripts were revealed in the ectoneural epithelium of the radial nerve cords and circumoral nerve ring, arm tips, tube feet, cardiac stomach, pyloric stomach, and, most notably, gonoducts. Using specific antibodies to A. rubens RGP, immunostaining was revealed in cells and/or fibers in the ectoneural region of the radial nerve cords and circumoral nerve ring, tube feet, terminal tentacle and other arm tip-associated structures, body wall, peristomial membrane, esophagus, cardiac stomach, pyloric stomach, pyloric caeca, and gonoducts. Our discovery that RGP is expressed in the gonoducts of A. rubens proximal to its gonadotropic site of action in the gonads is important because it provides a new perspective on how RGP may act as a gonadotropin in starfish. Thus, we hypothesize that it is the release of RGP from the gonoducts that triggers gamete maturation and spawning in starfish, while RGP produced in other parts of the body may regulate other physiological/behavioral processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuling Feng
- School of Biological & Behavioural SciencesQueen Mary University of LondonLondonUK
| | | | - Ming Lin
- School of Biological & Behavioural SciencesQueen Mary University of LondonLondonUK
| | - Michaela Egertová
- School of Biological & Behavioural SciencesQueen Mary University of LondonLondonUK
| | - Masatoshi Mita
- Department of BiochemistryShowa University School of MedicineTokyoJapan
| | - Maurice R. Elphick
- School of Biological & Behavioural SciencesQueen Mary University of LondonLondonUK
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7
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Andrade López JM, Pani AM, Wu M, Gerhart J, Lowe CJ. Molecular characterization of nervous system organization in the hemichordate acorn worm Saccoglossus kowalevskii. PLoS Biol 2023; 21:e3002242. [PMID: 37725784 PMCID: PMC10508912 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3002242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Hemichordates are an important group for investigating the evolution of bilaterian nervous systems. As the closest chordate outgroup with a bilaterally symmetric adult body plan, hemichordates are particularly informative for exploring the origins of chordates. Despite the importance of hemichordate neuroanatomy for testing hypotheses on deuterostome and chordate evolution, adult hemichordate nervous systems have not been comprehensively described using molecular techniques, and classic histological descriptions disagree on basic aspects of nervous system organization. A molecular description of hemichordate nervous system organization is important for both anatomical comparisons across phyla and for attempts to understand how conserved gene regulatory programs for ectodermal patterning relate to morphological evolution in deep time. Here, we describe the basic organization of the adult hemichordate Saccoglossus kowalevskii nervous system using immunofluorescence, in situ hybridization, and transgenic reporters to visualize neurons, neuropil, and key neuronal cell types. Consistent with previous descriptions, we found the S. kowalevskii nervous system consists of a pervasive nerve plexus concentrated in the anterior, along with nerve cords on both the dorsal and ventral side. Neuronal cell types exhibited clear anteroposterior and dorsoventral regionalization in multiple areas of the body. We observed spatially demarcated expression patterns for many genes involved in synthesis or transport of neurotransmitters and neuropeptides but did not observe clear distinctions between putatively centralized and decentralized portions of the nervous system. The plexus shows regionalized structure and is consistent with the proboscis base as a major site for information processing rather than the dorsal nerve cord. In the trunk, there is a clear division of cell types between the dorsal and ventral cords, suggesting differences in function. The absence of neural processes crossing the basement membrane into muscle and extensive axonal varicosities suggest that volume transmission may play an important role in neural function. These data now facilitate more informed neural comparisons between hemichordates and other groups, contributing to broader debates on the origins and evolution of bilaterian nervous systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- José M. Andrade López
- Department of Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, California, United States of America
| | - Ariel M. Pani
- Departments of Biology and Cell Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, Unites States of America
| | - Mike Wu
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, California, Unites States of America
| | - John Gerhart
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, California, Unites States of America
| | - Christopher J. Lowe
- Department of Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, California, United States of America
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8
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Oikawa I, Kondo S, Hashimoto K, Yoshida A, Hamajima M, Tanimoto H, Furukubo-Tokunaga K, Honjo K. A descending inhibitory mechanism of nociception mediated by an evolutionarily conserved neuropeptide system in Drosophila. eLife 2023; 12:RP85760. [PMID: 37310871 DOI: 10.7554/elife.85760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Nociception is a neural process that animals have developed to avoid potentially tissue-damaging stimuli. While nociception is triggered in the peripheral nervous system, its modulation by the central nervous system is a critical process in mammals, whose dysfunction has been extensively implicated in chronic pain pathogenesis. The peripheral mechanisms of nociception are largely conserved across the animal kingdom. However, it is unclear whether the brain-mediated modulation is also conserved in non-mammalian species. Here, we show that Drosophila has a descending inhibitory mechanism of nociception from the brain, mediated by the neuropeptide Drosulfakinin (DSK), a homolog of cholecystokinin (CCK) that plays an important role in the descending control of nociception in mammals. We found that mutants lacking dsk or its receptors are hypersensitive to noxious heat. Through a combination of genetic, behavioral, histological, and Ca2+ imaging analyses, we subsequently revealed neurons involved in DSK-mediated nociceptive regulation at a single-cell resolution and identified a DSKergic descending neuronal pathway that inhibits nociception. This study provides the first evidence for a descending modulatory mechanism of nociception from the brain in a non-mammalian species that is mediated by the evolutionarily conserved CCK system, raising the possibility that the descending inhibition is an ancient mechanism to regulate nociception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Izumi Oikawa
- Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Shu Kondo
- Faculty of Advanced Engineering, Tokyo University of Science, Katsushika-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kao Hashimoto
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Akiho Yoshida
- Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Megumi Hamajima
- Center for Development of Advanced Medicine for Dementia, National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Obu, Japan
| | - Hiromu Tanimoto
- Graduate School of Life Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | | | - Ken Honjo
- Center for Development of Advanced Medicine for Dementia, National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Obu, Japan
- Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
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9
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Wilkie IC, Candia Carnevali MD. Morphological and Physiological Aspects of Mutable Collagenous Tissue at the Autotomy Plane of the Starfish Asterias rubens L. (Echinodermata, Asteroidea): An Echinoderm Paradigm. Mar Drugs 2023; 21:md21030138. [PMID: 36976186 PMCID: PMC10058165 DOI: 10.3390/md21030138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The mutable collagenous tissue (MCT) of echinoderms has the capacity to undergo changes in its tensile properties within a timescale of seconds under the control of the nervous system. All echinoderm autotomy (defensive self-detachment) mechanisms depend on the extreme destabilisation of mutable collagenous structures at the plane of separation. This review illustrates the role of MCT in autotomy by bringing together previously published and new information on the basal arm autotomy plane of the starfish Asterias rubens L. It focuses on the MCT components of breakage zones in the dorsolateral and ambulacral regions of the body wall, and details data on their structural organisation and physiology. Information is also provided on the extrinsic stomach retractor apparatus whose involvement in autotomy has not been previously recognised. We show that the arm autotomy plane of A. rubens is a tractable model system for addressing outstanding problems in MCT biology. It is amenable to in vitro pharmacological investigations using isolated preparations and provides an opportunity for the application of comparative proteomic analysis and other “-omics” methods which are aimed at the molecular profiling of different mechanical states and characterising effector cell functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iain C. Wilkie
- School of Biodiversity, One Health and Veterinary Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
- Correspondence: (I.C.W.); (M.D.C.C.)
| | - M. Daniela Candia Carnevali
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy
- Correspondence: (I.C.W.); (M.D.C.C.)
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10
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Tinoco AB, Egertová M, Elphick MR. Immunohistochemical localisation of vasopressin/oxytocin-type, corazonin-type and luqin-type neuropeptide expression in the starfish Asterias rubens using antibodies to the C-terminal region of precursor proteins. Cell Tissue Res 2023; 391:441-456. [PMID: 36653662 PMCID: PMC9974683 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-023-03738-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Neuropeptides derived from larger precursor proteins are secreted as signalling molecules by neurons and regulate diverse physiological and behavioural processes in animals. Recently, we reported the discovery of ArCRZ (HNTFTMGGQNRWKAG-NH2) and ArLQ (EEKTRFPKFMRW-NH2)-novel neuropeptides in the starfish Asterias rubens that are orthologs of arthropod corazonins and molluscan luqins, respectively. However, our efforts to generate antibodies to ArCRZ and ArLQ have been unsuccessful, precluding immunohistochemical analysis of their expression. Here, we investigated an alternative experimental approach for neuropeptide immunohistochemistry by generating antibodies to peptides corresponding to the C-terminal region of the precursor proteins. As proof of principle, we generated antibodies to the C-terminal region of the precursor of the vasopressin/oxytocin-type neuropeptide asterotocin and show that these reveal immunostaining in A. rubens that is very similar to that observed with asterotocin antibodies. Furthermore, antibodies to the C-terminal region of the ArCRZ precursor (ArCRZP) and the ArLQ precursor (ArLQP) produced patterns of immunostaining consistent, respectively, with the distribution of ArCRZP and ArLQP transcripts revealed by mRNA in situ hybridisation. Detailed immunohistochemical analysis revealed widespread expression of ArCRZP and ArLQP in A. rubens, including the central nervous system, digestive system and the body wall and its associated appendages (e.g. tube feet), providing a neuroanatomical framework for investigation and interpretation of the pharmacological actions of ArCRZ and ArLQ in A. rubens. Furthermore, our findings provide a basis for use of antibodies to the C-terminal region of neuropeptide precursor proteins in other species where the production of antibodies to the bioactive neuropeptides is unsuccessful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana B Tinoco
- School of Biological & Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London, E1 4NS, UK
| | - Michaela Egertová
- School of Biological & Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London, E1 4NS, UK
| | - Maurice R Elphick
- School of Biological & Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London, E1 4NS, UK.
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11
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Aleotti A, Wilkie IC, Yañez-Guerra LA, Gattoni G, Rahman TA, Wademan RF, Ahmad Z, Ivanova DA, Semmens DC, Delroisse J, Cai W, Odekunle E, Egertová M, Ferrario C, Sugni M, Bonasoro F, Elphick MR. Discovery and functional characterization of neuropeptides in crinoid echinoderms. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:1006594. [PMID: 36583101 PMCID: PMC9793003 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.1006594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropeptides are one of the largest and most diverse families of signaling molecules in animals and, accordingly, they regulate many physiological processes and behaviors. Genome and transcriptome sequencing has enabled the identification of genes encoding neuropeptide precursor proteins in species from a growing variety of taxa, including bilaterian and non-bilaterian animals. Of particular interest are deuterostome invertebrates such as the phylum Echinodermata, which occupies a phylogenetic position that has facilitated reconstruction of the evolution of neuropeptide signaling systems in Bilateria. However, our knowledge of neuropeptide signaling in echinoderms is largely based on bioinformatic and experimental analysis of eleutherozoans-Asterozoa (starfish and brittle stars) and Echinozoa (sea urchins and sea cucumbers). Little is known about neuropeptide signaling in crinoids (feather stars and sea lilies), which are a sister clade to the Eleutherozoa. Therefore, we have analyzed transcriptome/genome sequence data from three feather star species, Anneissia japonica, Antedon mediterranea, and Florometra serratissima, to produce the first comprehensive identification of neuropeptide precursors in crinoids. These include representatives of bilaterian neuropeptide precursor families and several predicted crinoid neuropeptide precursors. Using A. mediterranea as an experimental model, we have investigated the expression of selected neuropeptides in larvae (doliolaria), post-metamorphic pentacrinoids and adults, providing new insights into the cellular architecture of crinoid nervous systems. Thus, using mRNA in situ hybridization F-type SALMFamide precursor transcripts were revealed in a previously undescribed population of peptidergic cells located dorso-laterally in doliolaria. Furthermore, using immunohistochemistry a calcitonin-type neuropeptide was revealed in the aboral nerve center, circumoral nerve ring and oral tube feet in pentacrinoids and in the ectoneural and entoneural compartments of the nervous system in adults. Moreover, functional analysis of a vasopressin/oxytocin-type neuropeptide (crinotocin), which is expressed in the brachial nerve of the arms in A. mediterranea, revealed that this peptide causes a dose-dependent change in the mechanical behavior of arm preparations in vitro-the first reported biological action of a neuropeptide in a crinoid. In conclusion, our findings provide new perspectives on neuropeptide signaling in echinoderms and the foundations for further exploration of neuropeptide expression/function in crinoids as a sister clade to eleutherozoan echinoderms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Aleotti
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of Milan, Milan, Italy,School of Biological & Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Iain C. Wilkie
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Luis A. Yañez-Guerra
- School of Biological & Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Giacomo Gattoni
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of Milan, Milan, Italy,School of Biological & Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Tahshin A. Rahman
- School of Biological & Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Richard F. Wademan
- School of Biological & Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Zakaryya Ahmad
- School of Biological & Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Deyana A. Ivanova
- School of Biological & Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Dean C. Semmens
- School of Biological & Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jérôme Delroisse
- School of Biological & Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Weigang Cai
- School of Biological & Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Esther Odekunle
- School of Biological & Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Michaela Egertová
- School of Biological & Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Cinzia Ferrario
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Michela Sugni
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Bonasoro
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Maurice R. Elphick
- School of Biological & Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom,*Correspondence: Maurice R. Elphick,
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Zheng Y, Cong X, Liu H, Wang Y, Storey KB, Chen M. Nervous System Development and Neuropeptides Characterization in Embryo and Larva: Insights from a Non-Chordate Deuterostome, the Sea Cucumber Apostichopus japonicus. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11101538. [PMID: 36290441 PMCID: PMC9598280 DOI: 10.3390/biology11101538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Here, we described the complex nervous system at five early developmental stages (blastula, gastrula, auricularia, doliolaria and pentactula) of a holothurian species with highly economic value, Apostichopus japonicus. The results revealed that the nervous system of embryos and larvae is mainly distributed in the anterior apical region, ciliary bands or rings, and the feeding and attachment organs, and that serotonergic immunoreactivity was not observed until the embryo developed into the late gastrula; these are evolutionarily conserved features of echinoderm, hemichordate and protostome larvae. Furthermore, based on available transcriptome data, we reported the neuropeptide precursors profile at different embryonic and larval developmental stages. This analysis showed that 40 neuropeptide precursors present in adult sea cucumbers were also identified at different developmental stages of embryos and larvae, and only four neuropeptide precursors (SWYG precursor 2, GYWKDLDNYVKAHKT precursor, Neuropeptide precursor 14-like precursor, GLRFAmprecursor-like precursor) predicted in adults were absent in embryos and larvae. Combining the quantitative expression of ten specific neuropeptide precursor genes (NPs) by qRT-PCR, we revealed the potential important roles of neuropeptides in embryo development, feeding and attachment in A. japonicus larvae. In conclusion, this work provides novel perspectives on the diverse physiological functions of neuropeptides and contributes to understanding the evolution of neuropeptidergic systems in echinoderm embryos and larvae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingqiu Zheng
- The Key Laboratory of Mariculture, Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Xiao Cong
- The Key Laboratory of Mariculture, Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Huachen Liu
- The Key Laboratory of Mariculture, Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Yixin Wang
- The Key Laboratory of Mariculture, Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Kenneth B. Storey
- Institute of Biochemistry, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6, Canada
| | - Muyan Chen
- The Key Laboratory of Mariculture, Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
- Correspondence:
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Escudero Castelán N, Semmens DC, Guerra LAY, Zandawala M, Dos Reis M, Slade SE, Scrivens JH, Zampronio CG, Jones AM, Mirabeau O, Elphick MR. Receptor deorphanization in an echinoderm reveals kisspeptin evolution and relationship with SALMFamide neuropeptides. BMC Biol 2022; 20:187. [PMID: 36002813 PMCID: PMC9400282 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-022-01387-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Kisspeptins are neuropeptides that regulate reproductive maturation in mammals via G-protein-coupled receptor-mediated stimulation of gonadotropin-releasing hormone secretion from the hypothalamus. Phylogenetic analysis of kisspeptin-type receptors indicates that this neuropeptide signaling system originated in a common ancestor of the Bilateria, but little is known about kisspeptin signaling in invertebrates. RESULTS Contrasting with the occurrence of a single kisspeptin receptor in mammalian species, here, we report the discovery of an expanded family of eleven kisspeptin-type receptors in a deuterostome invertebrate - the starfish Asterias rubens (phylum Echinodermata). Furthermore, neuropeptides derived from four precursor proteins were identified as ligands for six of these receptors. One or more kisspeptin-like neuropeptides derived from two precursor proteins (ArKPP1, ArKPP2) act as ligands for four A. rubens kisspeptin-type receptors (ArKPR1,3,8,9). Furthermore, a family of neuropeptides that act as muscle relaxants in echinoderms (SALMFamides) are ligands for two A. rubens kisspeptin-type receptors (ArKPR6,7). The SALMFamide neuropeptide S1 (or ArS1.4) and a 'cocktail' of the seven neuropeptides derived from the S1 precursor protein (ArS1.1-ArS1.7) act as ligands for ArKPR7. The SALMFamide neuropeptide S2 (or ArS2.3) and a 'cocktail' of the eight neuropeptides derived from the S2 precursor protein (ArS2.1-ArS2.8) act as ligands for ArKPR6. CONCLUSIONS Our findings reveal a remarkable diversity of neuropeptides that act as ligands for kisspeptin-type receptors in starfish and provide important new insights into the evolution of kisspeptin signaling. Furthermore, the discovery of the hitherto unknown relationship of kisspeptins with SALMFamides, neuropeptides that were discovered in starfish prior to the identification of kisspeptins in mammals, presents a radical change in perspective for research on kisspeptin signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nayeli Escudero Castelán
- Queen Mary University of London, School of Biological & Behavioural Sciences, London, E1 4NS, UK
| | - Dean C Semmens
- Queen Mary University of London, School of Biological & Behavioural Sciences, London, E1 4NS, UK
- Present address: Institute of Medical and Biomedical Education, St George's University of London, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE, UK
| | - Luis Alfonso Yañez Guerra
- Queen Mary University of London, School of Biological & Behavioural Sciences, London, E1 4NS, UK
- Present Address: Living Systems Institute, University of Exeter, Exeter, EX4 4QD, UK
| | - Meet Zandawala
- Queen Mary University of London, School of Biological & Behavioural Sciences, London, E1 4NS, UK
- Present Address: Neurobiology and Genetics, Theodor-Boveri-Institute, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, 97074, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Mario Dos Reis
- Queen Mary University of London, School of Biological & Behavioural Sciences, London, E1 4NS, UK
| | - Susan E Slade
- School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK
- Present address: Waters Corporation, Stamford Avenue, Altrincham Road, Wilmslow, SK9 4AX, UK
| | - James H Scrivens
- School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK
- Present address: School of Science, Engineering & Design, Stephenson Street, Teesside University, Middlesbrough, TS1 3BX, TS1 3BA, Tees Valley, UK
| | | | - Alexandra M Jones
- School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK
| | - Olivier Mirabeau
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Bioinformatics and Biostatistics Hub, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Maurice R Elphick
- Queen Mary University of London, School of Biological & Behavioural Sciences, London, E1 4NS, UK.
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Li Y, Cui ZJ. Transmembrane Domain 3 Is a Transplantable Pharmacophore in the Photodynamic Activation of Cholecystokinin 1 Receptor. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2022; 5:539-547. [PMID: 35983279 PMCID: PMC9379944 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.2c00031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cholecystokinin 1 receptor (CCK1R) is activated in photodynamic action by singlet oxygen, but detailed molecular mechanisms are not elucidated. To identify the pharmacophore(s) in photodynamic CCK1R activation, we examined photodynamic activation of point mutants CCK1RM121/3.32A, CCK1RM121/3.32Q, and a chimeric receptor with CCK1R transmembrane domain 3 (TM3) transplanted to muscarinic ACh receptor 3 (M3R) which is unaffected by photodynamic action. These engineered receptors were tagged at the N-terminus with genetically encoded protein photosensitizer miniSOG, and their light-driven photodynamic activation was compared to wild type CCK1R and M3R, as monitored by Fura-2 fluorescent calcium imaging. Photodynamic activations of miniSOG-CCK1RM121/3.32A and miniSOG-CCK1RM121/3.32Q were found to be 55% and 73%, respectively, when compared to miniSOG-CCK1R (100%), whereas miniSOG-M3R was not affected (0% activation). Notably, the chimeric receptor miniSOG-M3R-TM3CCK1R was effectively activated photodynamically (65%). These data suggest that TM3 is an important pharmacophore in photodynamic CCK1R activation, readily transplantable to nonsusceptible M3R for photodynamic activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Li
- Institute of Cell Biology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Zong Jie Cui
- Institute of Cell Biology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
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Nässel DR, Wu SF. Cholecystokinin/sulfakinin peptide signaling: conserved roles at the intersection between feeding, mating and aggression. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:188. [PMID: 35286508 PMCID: PMC8921109 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04214-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 02/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Neuropeptides are the most diverse messenger molecules in metazoans and are involved in regulation of daily physiology and a wide array of behaviors. Some neuropeptides and their cognate receptors are structurally and functionally well conserved over evolution in bilaterian animals. Among these are peptides related to gastrin and cholecystokinin (CCK). In mammals, CCK is produced by intestinal endocrine cells and brain neurons, and regulates gall bladder contractions, pancreatic enzyme secretion, gut functions, satiety and food intake. Additionally, CCK plays important roles in neuromodulation in several brain circuits that regulate reward, anxiety, aggression and sexual behavior. In invertebrates, CCK-type peptides (sulfakinins, SKs) are, with a few exceptions, produced by brain neurons only. Common among invertebrates is that SKs mediate satiety and regulate food ingestion by a variety of mechanisms. Also regulation of secretion of digestive enzymes has been reported. Studies of the genetically tractable fly Drosophila have advanced our understanding of SK signaling mechanisms in regulation of satiety and feeding, but also in gustatory sensitivity, locomotor activity, aggression and reproductive behavior. A set of eight SK-expressing brain neurons plays important roles in regulation of these competing behaviors. In males, they integrate internal state and external stimuli to diminish sex drive and increase aggression. The same neurons also diminish sugar gustation, induce satiety and reduce feeding. Although several functional roles of CCK/SK signaling appear conserved between Drosophila and mammals, available data suggest that the underlying mechanisms differ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dick R Nässel
- Department of Zoology, Stockholm University, 10691, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Shun-Fan Wu
- College of Plant Protection/Laboratory of Bio-Interactions and Crop Health, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
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Cui T, Wang J, Hu Z, Chen X. Expression of gastrin and cholecystokinin B receptor in Lateolabrax maculatus. AQUACULTURE AND FISHERIES 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.aaf.2021.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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