A single gene encodes multiple peptide-transmitter candidates involved in a stereotyped behavior

Abstract A multidisciplinary approach is being used to study the roles of peptides in neuronal function and the regulation of behavior in Aplysia . Recent data indicate that a group of neuroendocrine cells, the bag cells, utilize two or more peptide neurotransmitters (and/or neurohormones) that are enzymatically cleaved from a common precursor protein. The gene for this precursor is a member of a small gene family that encodes several different precursor proteins for neuroactive peptides. The combined effects of the bag-cell peptides may serve to regulate the various neural and physiological events underlying a stereotyped pattern of behavior during egg laying.