Induction of ecdysteroidogenesis, methyl farnesoate synthesis and expression of ecdysteroid receptor and retinoid X receptor in the hepatopancreas and ovary of the giant mud crab, Scylla serrata by melatonin

Melatonin administration elevated circulatory levels of methyl farnesoate and ecdysteroids in the giant mud crab Scylla serrata.

• Melatonin is associated with increased synthesis of key reproductive hormones in crustaceans.
• Significant increases in expression levels of retinoid X receptor and ecdysone receptor were observed in the hepatopancreas and ovary after melatonin administration.
• In vitro studies showed that melatonin stimulated the secretion of methyl farnesoate and ecdysteroid from specific glands in crabs.
• The findings suggest that melatonin may play a crucial role as a reproductive hormone in Scylla serrata.

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