Convergent Evolution of Signaling Mechanisms in Pain and Stress

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

2024

Abstract

Opioid drugs, such as morphine, have been shown to have antinociceptive effects in honey bees, similar to their effect on vertebrates (Esch et al., 2020). However, the vertebrate opioid system is understood to have evolved after the divergence of extant vertebrates from invertebrates (Dreborg et al., 2008). Uncovering the evolution of the opioid system and related signaling systems may lead to important insights into the vital functions of these molecules and how they interact to produce behavior. Using a series of BLAST analyses, we identify relationships between receptor families found in honey bees and humans to determine similarity in protein structure and function. We present a hypothetical model of g-protein coupled receptor evolution which could lead to novel predictions about the interaction of GCPR molecules in both vertebrate and invertebrate organisms. Our aim is to highlight parallel chemical mechanisms underlying pain and stress behavioral phenotypes in honey bees and mammals.

Comments

Studies in Social Psychology
BLH 266

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