Modulation of the Limulus heart

Abstract

In this paper we briefly review recent studies concerning amine and peptide modulation of the neurogenic Limulus heart. We have organized the presentation of our most recent data in terms of patterns that have emerged from our work which also appear to be true in several other systems. The comparative and perhaps evolutionary patterns which we have focused on are as follows:A given modulator often acts at a number of sites in the system, or the organism, to produce an organized change in behavior or function.Some modulators use the same second messenger to mediate their effects at each site in a system.Modulators that have the same effect on a target tissue can use different cellular mechanisms.The physiological state of a particular tissue in vivo may be markedly different from an isolated preparation due to local and circulating neuromodulators.Each member of a family of modulators may play a unique role in vivo. © 1989 by the American Society of Zoologists.