Insect diuretic peptides: Structures, evolution and actions

Abstract

SYNOPSIS. Diuretic peptidcs stimulate primary urine production by insect Malpighian tubules and, along with antidiuretic hormones, regulate water loss from the excretory system. There are two structurally distinct families of diuretic peptides. CRF-related diuretic peptides belong to the vertebrate CRF/sauvagine/urotensin I/urocortin superfamily. They increase urine production via a cyclic AMPdependent mechanism, and there is evidence for one of them (Lom-DH) having a hormonal function in the control of post-feeding diuresis in locusts. Related peptides appear to trigger post-eclosion diuresis in moths. The insect kinins act via a Ca.