Modulation of Crustacean Innate Immune Response by Amino Acids and Their Metabolites: Inferences From Other Species

Abstract

Aquaculture production of crustaceans (mainly shrimp and crabs) has expanded globally, but disease outbreaks and pathogenic infections have hampered production in the last two decades. As invertebrates, crustaceans lack an adaptive immune system and mainly defend and protect themselves using their innate immune system. The immune system derives energy and metabolites from nutrients, with amino acids constituting one such source. A growing number of studies have shown that amino acids and their metabolites are involved in the activation, synthesis, proliferation, and differentiation of immune cells, as well as in the activation of immune related signaling pathways, reduction of inflammatory response and regulation of oxidative stress. Key enzymes in amino acid metabolism have also been implicated in the regulation of the immune system. Here, we reviewed the role played by amino acids and their metabolites in immune-modulation in crustaceans. Information is inferred from mammals and fish where none exists for crustaceans. Research themes are identified and the relevant research gaps highlighted for further studies.

Growth Performance, Immune-Related and Antioxidant Genes Expression, and Gut Bacterial Abundance of Pacific White Leg Shrimp, Litopenaeus vannamei, Dietary Supplemented With Natural Astaxanthin

“…In crustaceans, the innate immune system is the main animal defence to any pathogen. This defence is mediated by several kinds of cells, enzymes, and antimicrobial peptides ( Huang et al, 2020 ). The present finding revealed an upregulation of the Bgp gene in shrimp fed 4 and 6 g astaxanthin/kg diets, especially with the 4 g/kg diet.…”

Supplementation of hairy eggplant (Solanum ferox) and bitter ginger (Zingiber zerumbet) extracts as phytobiotic agents on whiteleg shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei)

“…On the other hand, if the shrimp body is unstable, then the shrimp may experience a decrease in appetite and the feed provided is not converted into biomass. Stressed or unhealthy shrimp can be better at converting feed ingredients for weight growth compared to healthy shrimp [ 38 ].…”

Biometric study, sex ratio and potential biological activities of the edible mantis shrimp Erugosquilla massavensis

“…Like invertebrates, mantis shrimps lack adaptive immunity and rely mainly on powerful innate immune system to protect themselves from pathogens (Sánchez-Salgado et al, 2017; Huang et al, 2020). Hemolymph and hepatopancreas serve as the main components of immunity in the bodies of crustaceans (Rőszer, 2014).…”