Comparison of chemical compounds associated with sclerites from healthy and diseased sea fan corals (Gorgonia ventalina).

ABSTRACT:

Background

The roles of gorgonian sclerites as structural components and predator deterrents have been widely studied. Yet their role as barriers against microbes has only recently been investigated, and even less is known about the diversity and roles of the chemical compounds associated with sclerites.

Methods

Here, we examine the semi-volatile organic compound fraction (SVOCs) associated with sclerites from healthy and diseased Gorgonia ventalina sea fan corals to understand their possible role as a stress response or in defense of infection. We also measured the oxidative potential of compounds from diseased and healthy G. ventalina colonies.

Results

The results showed that sclerites harbor a great diversity of SVOCs. Overall, 70 compounds were ident

SUBMITTER: Toledo-Hernandez C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5572935 | biostudies-literature | 2017

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature