The amphioxus (Branchiostoma floridae) genome contains a highly diversified set of G protein-coupled receptors
2008
Diverse G protein-coupled receptors in amphioxus genome
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Nordström Karl JV, Fredriksson Robert, Schiöth Helgi B
Primary Institution: Uppsala University
Hypothesis
The study investigates the diversity of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) in the amphioxus genome.
Conclusion
The amphioxus genome is rich in various GPCR subtypes, but lacks several GPCR groups known to sense external substances in other species.
Supporting Evidence
- The amphioxus genome contains at least 664 distinct GPCRs.
- The Rhodopsin family is the largest group of GPCRs identified in amphioxus.
- Amphioxus lacks genes coding for bitter taste receptors and mammalian olfactory receptors.
Takeaway
Amphioxus has a lot of different receptors that help it sense things, but it doesn't have some of the special ones that other animals use to taste or smell.
Methodology
The study involved mining and phylogenetic analysis of the amphioxus genome to identify GPCRs.
Limitations
The study does not account for sensory GPCRs that may not have been identified in the analysis.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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