Characterization of a tachykinin signalling system in the bivalve mollusc Crassostrea gigas
Dubos, M.-P.; Zels, S.; Schwartz, J.; Pasquier, J.; Schoofs, L.; Favrel, P. (2018). Characterization of a tachykinin signalling system in the bivalve mollusc Crassostrea gigas. Gen. Comp. Endocrinol. 266: 110-118. https://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.ygcen.2018.05.003 In: General and Comparative Endocrinology. Elsevier: New York,. ISSN 0016-6480; e-ISSN 1095-6840, more |  |
| Keywords | Mollusca [WoRMS]
Marine/Coastal | | Author keywords | Mollusc; Neuropeptide; Tachykinin signalling; Feeding |
| Authors | | Top | - Dubos, M.-P.
- Zels, S., more
- Schwartz, J.
| - Pasquier, J.
- Schoofs, L., more
- Favrel, P.
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| Abstract | Although tachykinin-like neuropeptides have been identified in molluscs more than two decades ago, knowledge on their function and signalling has so far remained largely elusive. We developed a cell-based assay to address the functionality of the tachykinin G-protein coupled receptor (Cragi-TKR) in the oyster Crassostrea gigas. The oyster tachykinin neuropeptides that are derived from the tachykinin precursor gene Cragi-TK activate the Cragi-TKR in nanomolar concentrations. Receptor activation is sensitive to Ala-substitution of critical Cragi-TK amino acid residues. The Cragi-TKR gene is expressed in a variety of tissues, albeit at higher levels in the visceral ganglia (VG) of the nervous system. Fluctuations of Cragi-TKR expression is in line with a role for TK signalling in C. gigas reproduction. The expression level of the Cragi-TK gene in the VG depends on the nutritional status of the oyster, suggesting a role for TK signalling in the complex regulation of feeding in C. gigas. |
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