A P2X receptor from the tardigrade species Hypsibius dujardini with fast kinetics and sensitivity to zinc and copper
2009
Characterization of a P2X receptor from the tardigrade Hypsibius dujardini
Sample size: 39
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Bavan Selvan, Straub Volko A, Blaxter Mark L, Ennion Steven J
Primary Institution: University of Leicester
Hypothesis
Does the tardigrade Hypsibius dujardini possess a functional P2X receptor?
Conclusion
The study confirms the presence of a P2X receptor in a tardigrade species, suggesting independent loss of P2X genes in nematodes and arthropods.
Supporting Evidence
- HdP2X showed faster recovery from desensitization compared to human P2X1.
- Zinc and copper inhibited ATP-evoked currents in HdP2X.
- Ivermectin potentiated responses to ATP in HdP2X.
Takeaway
Scientists found a special protein in a tiny creature called a tardigrade that helps it respond to a chemical called ATP, which is important for cell communication.
Methodology
The study involved expressing cRNA encoding the Hypsibius dujardini P2X gene in Xenopus oocytes to record ATP-evoked membrane currents.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.01
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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