Hermissenda crassicornis genetics

December 12, 2005
From: Martin H. Johnson

Dear Bill,
I am in the early stages of using molecular biology to study the relationship between Hermissenda crassicornis and its prey. I would like to study the immune system and try to determine how the sea slug can ingest nematocysts of Cnidarians without discharging them and without having its own immune system attack the cells. I think a study such as this could lend some information in the area of tissue rejection. Do you know of any genetic studies of this nudibranch or others? I live in Sitka, Alaska and am thinking of using Metridium senile as the Cnidarian for this study. Any references or similar studies that you know of would be a great help. I have sure enjoyed all the pictures and information on this site.
Thanks for keeping it going.
Martin H. Johnson

martyj@mehs.us

Johnson, M.H., 2005 (Dec 12) Hermissenda crassicornis genetics. [Message in] Sea Slug Forum. Australian Museum, Sydney. Available from http://www.seaslugforum.net/find/15438

Dear Marty,
If you haven't already look at the relevant messages attached to the Hermissenda crassicornis Fact Sheet for more information on feeding, and the references I have cited on that page. The Avila et al (1998) paper mentions Metridium is a good food for adults but juveniles seem to need Tubularia for growth. The question of how aeolids can remove nematocysts from cnidarian and move them undischarged to their cnidosacs is indeed a fascinating story, which to my knowledge is still unsolved. The latest feeling is that nematocysts mature 'physically' some time before they are physiologically capable of discharging, and it is these physically mature but physiologically immature nematocysts which are utilised by the aeolids. One major problem is that it is still not clear how nematocysts are discharged in cnidarians! Have a look at the Fact Sheet on the Aeolid cnidosac for references to nematocysts and research on how aeolids utilise them. It is not a huge literature. If you find any further studies please let me know as it would be good to add them to the list.

Opisthiobranchs have made a habit of 'stealing' things from other organisms. Have a look at the solar powered Fact Sheet for references to those that harbour zooxanthellae and plastids. Clearly they also have found ways of defeating their own immune systems. Goos Luck with your research and keep in touch with us. I would love to hear progress reports.
Best wishes,
Bill Rudman

Rudman, W.B., 2005 (Dec 12). Comment on Hermissenda crassicornis genetics by Martin H. Johnson. [Message in] Sea Slug Forum. Australian Museum, Sydney. Available from http://www.seaslugforum.net/find/15438

Factsheet

Hermissenda crassicornis

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