Vanessa Schendel, Brett R. Hamilton, Samuel D. Robinson, Kathryn Green, Marcel E. Sayre, Darren Brown, Jennifer L. Stow, Jan Philip Øyen, Kjetil L. Voje, S. Sean Millard, Irina Vetter, Lachlan D. Rash, Eivind A. B. Undheim
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Venoms are biochemical arsenals that have emerged in numerous animal lineages, where they have co-evolved with morphological and behavioural traits for venom production and delivery. In centipedes, venom evolution is thought to be constrained by the morphological complexity of their venom glands due to physiological limitations on the number of toxins produced by their secretory cells. Here we show that the uneven toxin expression that results from these limitations have enabled Scolopendra morsitans to regulate the composition of their secreted venom despite the lack of gross morphologically complex venom glands. We show that this control is probably achieved by a combination of this heterogenous toxin distribution with a dual mechanism of venom secretion that involves neuromuscular innervation as well as stimulation via neurotransmitters. Our results suggest that behavioural control over venom composition may be an overlooked aspect of venom biology and provide an example of how exaptation can facilitate evolutionary innovation and novelty.
Nature ecology & evolutionAgricultural and Biological Sciences-Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics
CiteScore
22.20
自引率
2.40%
发文量
282
期刊介绍:
Nature Ecology & Evolution is interested in the full spectrum of ecological and evolutionary biology, encompassing approaches at the molecular, organismal, population, community and ecosystem levels, as well as relevant parts of the social sciences. Nature Ecology & Evolution provides a place where all researchers and policymakers interested in all aspects of life's diversity can come together to learn about the most accomplished and significant advances in the field and to discuss topical issues. An online-only monthly journal, our broad scope ensures that the research published reaches the widest possible audience of scientists.