Structure and proteomic analysis of the crown-of-thorns starfish (Acanthaster sp.) radial nerve cord.

ABSTRACT: The nervous system of the Asteroidea (starfish or seastar) consists of radial nerve cords (RNCs) that interconnect with a ring nerve. Despite its relative simplicity, it facilitates the movement of multiple arms and numerous tube feet, as well as regeneration of damaged limbs. Here, we investigated the RNC ultrastructure and its molecular components within the of Pacific crown-of-thorns starfish (COTS; Acanthaster sp.), a well-known coral predator that in high-density outbreaks has major ecological impacts on coral reefs. We describe the presence of an array of unique small bulbous bulbs (40-100 μm diameter) that project from the ectoneural region of the adult RNC. Each comprise large secretory-like cells and prominent cilia. In contrast, juvenile COTS and its congener Acanthaster brevispi

SUBMITTER: Smith MK 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9971248 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature