Existence of two mature sequences of cubifrin neuropeptide and their effects on spawning in the sea cucumber, Holothuria scabra

Existence of two mature sequences of cubifrin neuropeptide and their effects on spawning in the sea cucumber, Holothuria scabra

White sea cucumber, Holothuria scabra, is one of a premium marine species for domestic consumption and export in Asian countries.  Aquaculture of this species is limited by low production of gametes and larvae due to asynchronized spawning of the male and female broodstocks in captivity. In this research, our group has identified and characterized the cubifrin neuropeptide precursor in H. scabra that gives rise two mature sequences with different C-terminal sequences of NGIWYamide and NGIWFamide designated as cubifrin-Y and -F. This is the first time that the two mature sequences of cubifrins have been found in the same gene identified in this sea cucumber. The cubifrin-F type is also considered to be the newly reported type of cubifrin neuropeptides that have not been reported before. Functional bioassay has also revealed that the newly Identified cubifrin-F had higher potency in stimulating spawning than cubifrin-Y.  These cubifrins could be applied to stimulate of spawning of H. scabra for seed and larval productions for commercial-scale aquaculture of this species.

Reference:

Chaiyamoon A, Tinikul Y, Chaichotranunt S, Poomtong T, Suphamungmee W, Sobhon P,  Tinikul R. (2020) Existence of two mature sequences of cubifrin neuropeptide and their effects on spawning in the sea cucumber, Holothuria scabra. Aquaculture. 519,734753.