Neuropeptide Y in Spotted Scat (Scatophagus Argus), Characterization and Functional Analysis towards Feed Intake Regulation

Abstract

Neuropeptide Y (Npy) is an intricate neuropeptide regulating numerous physiological processes. It is a highly conserved peptide known to improve feed intake in many vertebrates, including fishes. To enlighten the mechanism of Npy in spotted scat feed intake control, we cloned and identified the Npy cDNA sequence. We further examined its expression in some tissues and explored its expression effects at different time frames (hours and days). Here, we discovered that spotted scat Npy comprised a 300 bp open reading frame (ORF) and a 99 amino acid sequence. Npy was identified to be expressed in all tissues examined. Using in situ hybridization examination, we proved that npy has a wide expression in the brain of the spotted scat. Furthermore, the expression of npy in the hypothalamus significantly increased one hour after feeding (p < 0.05). Further, it was revealed that npy expression significantly increased in fish that were fasted for up to 5 days and significantly increased after refeeding from the 8th to the 10th day. This suggests that Npy is an orexigenic peptide, and hence, it increases food intake and growth in the spotted scat. Additionally, results from in vitro and in vivo experiments revealed that Npy locally interacts with other appetite-regulating peptides in the spotted scat hypothalamus. This research aimed to set a fundamental study in developing the feed intake regulation, improving growth and reproduction, which is significant to the aquaculture industry of the spotted scat.

Effects of non‐nutritive sweeteners on growth and intestinal health by regulating hypothalamic RNA profile and ileum microbiota in guinea pigs

“…These activated neurons subsequently release various neuropeptides that increase the urge to seek food and promote consumption. 42 NPY2R and NPY5R are several subtypes of NPY that have been shown in previous studies to regulate the feed intake of chickens, 43 fish, 44 and mice. 44 In our current study, dietary supplementation of RA resulted in significantly higher feed intake and the mRNA expressions of NPY and AGRP in the hypothalamus.…”

“…42 NPY2R and NPY5R are several subtypes of NPY that have been shown in previous studies to regulate the feed intake of chickens, 43 fish, 44 and mice. 44 In our current study, dietary supplementation of RA resulted in significantly higher feed intake and the mRNA expressions of NPY and AGRP in the hypothalamus. This was consistent with our previous research.…”

Molecular cloning and expression characteristics of ghrl and ghsr genes in bighead carp (Hypophthalmichthys nobilis)

“…Fish feed to obtain the nutrients and energy they require for growth and reproduction, and their feeding habits are controlled by both their central nervous system and external environmental cues [1], which are regulated by key functional genes related to feeding [2]. In recent years, numerous genes with key roles in feeding in teleost shes have been identi ed, including npy8r (neuropeptide Y receptor y8), agrp (agoutirelated protein), npy (neuropeptide y), in addition to other orexigenic agents that drive sh to eat after fasting [3][4][5]. And the feeding suppressants, such as mc4r (melanocortin-4 receptor) and leptin, reduce sh feeding [6,7].…”