Peptides from skin
secretions of amphibians are considered important
components of their immune system and also play a relevant role in
their defense mechanism against predators. Herein, by using mass spectrometry
(MS), we characterize the sequence of 13 peptides from the gland secretion
of the hylid tree frog, Boana punctata. Using in situ matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization imaging
MS of a transverse section of the skin tissue, we show that some peptides
are stored as longer molecules that are cleaved after being secreted,
whereas others do not undergo any modification. Sequence comparison
with peptides from other Boana species
and analysis of the three-dimensional theoretical structure indicate
that this cleavage depends on both the presence of a specific sequence
motif and the secondary structure. The fact that peptides undergo
a rapid cleavage upon secretion suggests that stored and secreted
peptides may have distinct roles for anuran survival, including defense
against pathogens and predators.
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