Neuropeptide Actions in Arthropod Biology

Neuropeptides are key signals that regulate numerous physiological processes and behaviors in arthropods, including development, reproduction, feeding, homeostasis of water and ions, courtship, circadian rhythms, olfaction, movement, among other essential actions. They are highly specific signals that influence cell actions via particular cell surface receptors that convey high biological activity at low circulating concentrations. These cell actions, such as water transport, are registered at the organismal level. Modern genomic and transcriptomic techniques facilitate identification and investigation of many neuropeptides and their encoding genes, which have resulted in new understandings of arthropod biology. Among important advances, genes encoding neuropeptides may be exploited in development of novel approaches to pest management.
Neuropeptides are produced from neurosecretory cells and they signal their biological actions via interactions with specific cell surface receptors. We propose a collection of manuscripts dealing with molecular mechanisms of neuropeptides, their receptors, and signaling components. With over 50 major neuropeptide groups (or families) acting in arthropod physiology and behavior, we plan to include, papers on prothoracicotropic hormone, insulin-like peptide, bursicon, diuretic hormone, adipokinetic hormone, allatotropin, allatostatin, crustacean cardio-active peptide, eclosion hormone, pheromone biosynthesis activating neuropeptide, pre-ecdysis triggering hormone, sex peptide, vasopressin among other possibilities.
We welcome original research papers and reviews focusing on the physiological significance and molecular biology of neuropeptides and their receptors. This will be a particularly relevant topic and it will be of meaningful help to senior and beginning researchers in the fields covered.