Molecular cloning of four cDNAs encoding prepro-crustacean hyperglycemic hormone (CHH) from the eyestalk of the red rock crab Cancer productus: Identification of two genetically encoded CHH isoforms and two putative post-translationally derived CHH variants

Four distinct prepro-crustacean hyperglycemic hormone isoforms were characterized in Cancer productus, with three transcripts identified per individual crab.

• Differential distribution patterns of the four known isoforms of Cancer productus crustacean hyperglycemic hormone precursor-related peptide were observed.
• Molecular analyses revealed four characterized prepro-chh cDNAs: one for CPRP I, one for CPRP III, and two for CPRP II.
• No cDNA for CPRP IV was identified, suggesting its absence in the studied samples.
• The deduced CHH from prepro-hormones containing CPRP I and III were shown to be identical, differing from those containing CPRP II by a single amino acid substitution.
• Post-translational modifications are likely to result in four functional isoforms of CHH in Cancer productus, including amidation and cyclization.
• Transcripts were localized to the X-organ, indicating their role in producing the crustacean hyperglycemic hormone.

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