@article {5564,
	title = {Characterization of a tachykinin signalling system in the bivalve mollusc Crassostrea gigas},
	journal = {General and Comparative Endocrinology},
	volume = {266},
	year = {2018},
	pages = {110-118},
	type = {regular},
	abstract = {<p class="rtejustify">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.</p>
},
	doi = {https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ygcen.2018.05.003},
	author = {Marie-Pierre Dubos and Sven Zels and Julie Schwartz and Jeremy Pasquier and Liliane Schoofs and Pascal Favrel}
}
