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Evolutionary origins of the endocannabinoid system
John M McPartland1, Isabel Matias, Vincenzo Di Marzo
1GW Pharmaceuticals, 53 Washington Street Ext., Middlebury, VT 05753, USA. mcpruitt@verizon.net
Gene
|January 26, 2006
Summary
The evolution of the endocannabinoid system shows diverse gene trajectories across species. Functional orthologs for endocannabinoid genes are found in specific evolutionary lineages, from mammals to eukaryotes.
Area of Science:
- Evolutionary biology
- Genomics
- Biochemistry
Background:
- The endocannabinoid system plays crucial roles in physiological processes.
- Understanding its evolutionary origins is key to deciphering its functions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the evolutionary history of the endocannabinoid system.
- To identify functional orthologs across diverse species.
- To predict the functional origins of endocannabinoid genes.
Main Methods:
- Searched for functional orthologs in twelve diverse genomes.
- Utilized BLAST searches and phylogenetic analysis (ClustalX).
- Predicted protein function using pattern profilers (Pfam, Prosite, TMHMM, pSORT) and amino acid motifs.
Main Results:
- Endocannabinoid genes display heterogeneous evolutionary paths.
- Functional orthologs were identified in mammals (TRPV1, GPR55), vertebrates (CB2, DAGLbeta), chordates (MAGL, COX2), animals (DAGLalpha, CB1-like), opisthokonta (NAPE-PLD), and eukaryotes (FAAH).
- This method identified fewer orthologs compared to automated systems like HomoloGene.
Conclusions:
- The endocannabinoid system's evolution is complex and lineage-specific.
- Functional information transfer to gene trees provides insights into gene origins.
- Further research into phylogenetic profiles, gene displacement, and coevolution is warranted.
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