Molluscan Bioactive Peptides

In this chapter, we try to provide a detailed summary of the stud- ies reporting: discovery, gene organization, distribution, receptors, and biological action of peptides in the phylum Mollusca. Peptides have been collected in families or groups according to molecular structure. In separate subsections, we group structurally differ- ent peptides sharing a common biological action. According to these criteria, the RFamide peptides, and tachykinins, have been discussed as members of one peptide family. Other peptides are presented according to their involvement in energy flow, growth, feeding behavior, osmoregulation, and reproduction. Finally, a detailed analysis of peptides involved in egg laying and sexual behavioral repertoires is also reported.