Evolution of the relaxin-like peptide family - From neuropeptide to reproduction
- Author(s)
- Wilkinson, TN; Speed, TP; Tregear, GW; Bathgate, RAD;
- Journal Title
- RELAXIN AND RELATED PEPTIDES: FOURTH INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE
- Publication Type
- S
- Abstract
- The relaxin-like peptide family consists of relaxin-1, relaxin-2, and relaxin-3 and the insulin-like peptides (INSL)-3, INSL4, INSL5, and INSL6 (human relaxin-2 is equivalent to relaxin-1 in other species). Evolution of this family has been contentious. We therefore sought to clarify the issue by performing phylogenetic analysis of all relaxin-like peptides from the genomic databases available. Surprisingly, the phylogeny, combined with previous biologic characterizations, suggest that although relaxin's original function was likely in the brain, its reproductive role was acquired just prior to the divergence of amphibians. This phylogeny also illuminates inconsistencies in relaxin evolution in invertebrates, chickens, and cows.
- Publisher
- NEW YORK ACAD SCIENCES
- Keywords
- INSULIN-LIKE PEPTIDES; IDENTIFICATION; ASCIDIANS; RECEPTOR; HORMONE; MEMBER; LGR
- Publisher's Version
- https://doi.org/10.1196/annals.1282.079
- Terms of Use/Rights Notice
- Refer to copyright notice on published article.
Creation Date: 2005-01-01 12:00:00