ACTH in invertebrates: a molecule for all seasons

Authors

  • D Malagoli Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, via Campi, 213/D, 41125 Modena, Italy
  • E Ottaviani Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, via Campi, 213/D, 41125 Modena, Italy

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25431/1824-307X/isj.v13i1.28-33

Keywords:

ACTH, invertebrates, immunomodulation, stress response, parasitization

Abstract

In vertebrate and invertebrate models, adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) belongs to the melanocortin group of related peptides, which share a common precursor, pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC). Functional experiments indicate that in invertebrates, ACTH plays a major role in several biological functions. ACTH, whose effects have been conserved during evolution more than its amino acidic sequence, is, directly or indirectly, able to contrast agents that perturb a body’s homeostasis. Here we review evidence highlighting the involvement of ACTH and ACTH-like molecules in the response of invertebrate models versus immune, environmental and parasitic challenges.

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Published

2016-01-29

Issue

Section

Review