A Novel Method To Study Diversity and Functions of Peptides in Neuronal Networks: Peptides of the Network Underlying Male Copulation Behaviour in the Mollusc Lymnaea Stagnvalis

Abstract

Direct matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry of neurons and nerves was used to study the diversity, localization and transport of neuropeptides that are produced in the neuronal network that underlies male copulation behaviour in the mollusc Lymnaea stagnalis. These studies reveal a large peptide diversity and distinct peptide profiles in different parts of the network, suggesting a complex regulation of copulation behaviour. Two peptides, e.g., conopressin and APGWamide, which are colocalized in neurons of the network, are involved in the control of vas deferens activities. Conopressin, which is structurally related to vasopressin, induces muscular contractions of the vas deferens, whereas APGWamide inhibits the conopressin-induced contractions. Together, these peptides may be involved in the modulation of peristaltic movements of the vas deferens.KEY WORDS: direct peptide profiling by mass spectrometry, peptidergic neurons, male sexual behaviour, vas deferens, co-transmission of antagonistic peptides, APGWamide, conopressin, mollusc, Lymnaea stagnalis.

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone neuronal system of the freshwater snailsHelisoma trivolvis andLymnaea stagnalis: Possible involvement in reproduction

“…In Lymnaea stagnalis, the penial complex is innervated by multiple peptides (Li et al, 1992;van Kesteren et al, 1995a;de Lange et al, 1998). Neurons innervating the penial complex originate in the right cerebral, pleural, pedal, and parietal ganglia (de Boer et al, 1996;de Lange et al, 1998).…”