Analysis of soluble protein contents from the nematocysts of a model sea anemone sheds light on venom evolution.

ABSTRACT: The nematocyst is one of the most complex intracellular structures found in nature and is the defining feature of the phylum Cnidaria (sea anemones, corals, jellyfish, and hydroids). This miniature stinging organelle contains and delivers venom into prey and foe yet little is known about its toxic components. In the present study, we identified by tandem mass spectrometry 20 proteins released upon discharge from the nematocyst of the model sea anemone Nematostella vectensis. The availability of genomic and transcriptomic data for this species enabled accurate identification and phylogenetic study of these components. Fourteen of these proteins could not be identified in other animals suggesting that they might be the products of taxonomically restricted genes, a finding which fits well the

SUBMITTER: Moran Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3627010 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature