Morphological and gene expression similarities suggest that the ascidian neural gland may be osmoregulatory and homologous to vertebrate peri-ventricular organs.
Eur J Neurosci
; 24(8): 2299-308, 2006 Oct.
Article
en En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-17074050
ABSTRACT
Summary The central nervous system (cerebral ganglion) of adult ascidians is linked to the neural gland complex (NGC), which consists of a dorsal tubercle, a ciliated duct and a neural gland. The function of the NGC has been the subject of much debate. The recent publication of the complete genomic sequence of Ciona intestinalis provides new opportunities to examine the presence and distribution of protein families in this basal chordate. We focus here on the ascidian neuropeptide G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), the vertebrate homologues of which are involved in homeostasis. In situ hybridization revealed that five Ciona GPCRs [vasopressin receptor, somatostatin receptor, CRH (corticotropin-releasing hormone) receptor, angiotensin receptor and tachykinin receptor] are expressed in the NGC of adult ascidians. These findings, together with histological and ultrastructural data, provide evidence to support a role for the ascidian NGC in maintaining ionic homeostasis. We further speculate about the potential similarities between the ascidian NGC and the vertebrate choroid plexus, a neural peri-ventricular organ.
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Colección:
01-internacional
Base de datos:
MEDLINE
Asunto principal:
Equilibrio Hidroelectrolítico
/
Ciona intestinalis
/
Núcleos Talámicos de la Línea Media
/
Glándulas Exocrinas
Límite:
Animals
Idioma:
En
Revista:
Eur J Neurosci
Asunto de la revista:
NEUROLOGIA
Año:
2006
Tipo del documento:
Article
País de afiliación:
Francia