Abstract
Relaxin-like gonad-stimulating peptide (RGP) is a hormone with gonadotropin-like activity in starfish. This study revealed that spawning inducing activity was detected in an extract of brachiolaria larvae of Patiria pectinifera. Spawning inducing activity in the extract was due to P. pectinifera RGP (PpeRGP), not 1-methyladenine. The expression of PpeRGP mRNA was also found in brachiolaria. Immunohistochemical observation with specific antibodies for PpeRGP showed that PpeRGP was distributed in the peripheral adhesive papilla of the brachiolaria arms. In contrast, PpeRGP was not detected in the adult rudiment or ciliary band regions, which are present in the neural system. These findings strongly suggest that RGP exists in the larvae before metamorphosis. Because gonads are not developed in starfish larvae, it seems likely that RGP plays another role other than gonadotropic action in the early development of starfish.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
