Allatotropin is a member of a family of myotropic neuropeptides that stimulate juvenile hormone biosynthesis in some insects including the adult Lepidoptera. In addition, Manduca sexta allatotropin (Manse-AT) inhibits active ion transport across the larval midgut epithelium. The Manse-AT gene is expressed as at least three mRNAs that differ by alternative splicing. Each mRNA is predicted to encode a precursor protein from which Manse-AT is derived. Two Manse-AT mRNAs contain additional exons that contain the coding sequence of peptides related to Manse-AT; allatotropin-like (ATL) peptides. The ATL peptide possess similar biological activities as Manse-AT on the adult corpora allata and the larval midgut. The Manse-AT gene is expressed in multiple regions of the larval and adult central and enteric nervous systems consistent with its multiple biological roles. Alternative splicing of the Manse-AT gene is regulated in a stage- and tissue-specific manner, and the levels of one Manse-AT mRNA are specifically increased in response to nutrient deprivation.
This work was supported by NSF.
Species 1: Lepidoptera Sphingidae Manduca sexta (tobacco hornworm)
Keywords: neuropeptide, juvenile hormone
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