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Developmental regulation of BhSGAMP‐1 , a gene encoding an antimicrobial peptide in the salivary glands of Bradysia hygida (Diptera, Sciaridae)
Author(s) -
CandidoSilva Juliana A.,
Zanarotti Gabriela M.,
Gallina Ana P.,
de Almeida Jorge C.
Publication year - 2007
Publication title -
genesis
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.093
H-Index - 110
eISSN - 1526-968X
pISSN - 1526-954X
DOI - 10.1002/dvg.20337
Subject(s) - biology , antimicrobial peptides , antimicrobial , saliva , innate immune system , gene , secretion , peptide , moulting , microbiology and biotechnology , ecdysone , immune system , salivary gland , larva , immunology , genetics , botany , biochemistry
It has recently become clear that the innate immune systems of insects and mammals are highly conserved; in general, these systems are stimulated upon infection by microorganisms. We found in the fly Bradysia hygida , a reiterated gene, which codes for a secretory peptide similar to plant‐seed antimicrobial peptides. This gene BhSGAMP‐1 is activated and expressed exclusively in the salivary glands of the larvae, while they are preparing to molt. In functional tests, synthetic BhSGAMP‐1 peptide had broad spectrum antibiotic activity. Secretion of BhSGAMP‐1 in the saliva could help prevent microbial infection during molting, by killing harmful microorganisms in the immediate vicinity of the animal. This is the first description of developmentally regulated defense peptide secretion in animals. genesis 45:630‐638, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.