Journal of Clinical & Experimental Neuroimmunology
Open Access

Molluscs; Intertidal Adaptation; microRNAs; Neuroendocrine-Inflammation Pathway; Regulatory Mechanisms

Introduction

Molluscs represent a diverse group of invertebrates inhabiting a wide range of ecological niches, including intertidal zones where they face rapid and drastic environmental changes. The ability of molluscs to thrive in such dynamic habitats is underpinned by intricate molecular mechanisms, including the modulation of the neuroendocrineinflammation pathway by microRNAs (miRNAs). This review aims to elucidate the role of miRNAs in facilitating intertidal adaptation among molluscs , with a focus on their synergistic modulation of the neuroendocrine-inflammation pathway. The neuroendocrine-immune system serves as a highly conserved regulatory network crucial for maintaining organismal homeostasis across various species [1]. While advancements in understanding its roles in disease and stress responses are expanding, there remains a notable gap in our exploration of the ecological implications of this system, particularly in how it influences the distinct lifestyles of different organisms.

Oysters, as endemic and prevalent molluscs in intertidal regions, present a unique case study. These creatures have evolved alongside a primitive neuroendocrine-immune system, intricately linked to their sessile lifestyle. Recent investigations have unveiled a novel neuroendocrine-immune pathway within oysters, termed the Ca2+/ calmodulin (CaM)-nitrite oxide synthase (NOS)/nitrite oxide (NO)- tumor necrosis factor (TNF) pathway [2]. This pathway has been observed to undergo dynamic alterations during periods of aerial exposure, a common yet challenging stressor for intertidal organisms and a pivotal factor shaping their habitat.

Discussion

The synergistic modulation of the neuroendocrine-inflammation pathway by miRNAs represents a fundamental mechanism underlying the adaptive capacity of molluscs in intertidal environments. By integrating environmental cues with internal physiological states, miRNAs enable precise adjustments in neural, endocrine, and immune functions, ensuring the maintenance of homeostasis and the optimization of fitness. However, the complexity of miRNA-mediated regulation poses challenges in deciphering the specific roles of individual miRNAs and their target networks. Future research efforts should focus on elucidating the functional significance of miRNAmediated synergy within the neuroendocrine-inflammation pathway and its adaptive relevance in diverse molluscan species

Notably, prolonged exposure to aerial conditions has been shown to render this pathway detrimental, suggesting its involvement in the organism's response to stressors. However, further research is warranted to comprehensively understand the nuances of this pathway and its implications for oyster survival in intertidal environments [3]. Such insights could offer valuable perspectives on the intricate interplay between the neuroendocrine-immune system and environmental stressors, shedding light on the adaptive strategies of intertidal organisms like oysters.

The discussion of microRNA (miRNA) regulation within the neuroendocrine-inflammation pathway unveils the intricate mechanisms underlying the adaptability of organisms, particularly molluscs, to their environments. Herein, we delve into the implications and significance of miRNA-mediated modulation within this pathway [4].

Fine-tuning of Gene Expression

MiRNAs play a pivotal role in fine-tuning gene expression within the neuroendocrine-inflammation pathway. By targeting specific mRNAs encoding key regulatory proteins such as neuropeptides, neurotransmitter receptors, cytokines, and immune effectors, miRNAs exert precise control over signaling cascades. This fine-tuning enables organisms to modulate their responses to environmental stimuli, thereby maintaining homeostasis.

Context-dependent Regulation

The regulatory effects of miRNAs within the neuroendocrine-inflammation pathway are highly context-dependent. MiRNAs may exhibit differential expression patterns in response to various environmental stressors, developmental stages, or physiological states. This dynamic regulation allows organisms to adapt their responses to specific challenges, ensuring optimal survival and fitness in diverse conditions [5-7].

Synergistic Interactions

Emerging evidence suggests that miRNAs may act synergistically to modulate the neuroendocrine-inflammation pathway. Cooperative targeting of multiple genes by distinct miRNAs can amplify or attenuate signaling outputs, resulting in complex regulatory networks. Understanding these synergistic interactions is crucial for deciphering the functional significance of miRNA-mediated regulation and its adaptive relevance .

Implications for Intertidal Adaptation

In the context of intertidal adaptation, miRNA-mediated modulation of the neuroendocrine-inflammation pathway holds profound implications. Molluscs, as dominant inhabitants of intertidal regions, rely on precise adjustments in neural, endocrine, and immune functions to cope with fluctuating environmental conditions. The role of miRNAs in shaping these adaptive responses underscores their importance in facilitating intertidal adaptation .

Future Directions

Further research is warranted to elucidate the specific roles of individual miRNAs and their target networks within the neuroendocrine-inflammation pathway. Integrative approaches combining molecular biology, bioinformatics, and ecological studies are needed to unravel the complexity of miRNA-mediated regulation in intertidal organisms. Moreover, exploring the potential applications of miRNA-based strategies for conservation and management efforts in molluscan populations facing environmental challenges holds promise for future research endeavors.

Examples of miRNA-target Interactions in the Neuroendocrine- Inflammation Pathway

• miRNA Target Gene Biological Function

• miR-1 Neuropeptide Y Modulation of Feeding Behavior

• miR-10 Interleukin-6 Regulation of Immune Response

• miR-21 Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone Stress Response

• miR-100 Dopamine Receptor Neurotransmission Control

• miR-155 Toll-like Receptor Innate Immune Activation

MicroRNAs: Regulators of Gene Expression

MiRNAs are small non-coding RNAs that play crucial roles in posttranscriptional gene regulation by binding to target mRNAs, leading to their degradation or translational repression. In molluscs, miRNAs have been implicated in various biological processes, including development, immune response, and stress adaptation. Recent studies have highlighted the significance of miRNAs in fine-tuning the neuroendocrine-inflammation pathway, a key regulatory network involved in mediating physiological responses to environmental stimuli [8].

Neuroendocrine-Inflammation Pathway in Molluscs

The neuroendocrine-inflammation pathway encompasses a complex interplay between neuronal, endocrine, and immune signaling pathways, orchestrating responses to stress, injury, and infection. In molluscs, this pathway is intricately involved in coordinating physiological adjustments required for intertidal adaptation, such as osmoregulation, thermoregulation, and immune defense. Dysregulation of the neuroendocrine-inflammation pathway can compromise the survival and fitness of molluscs in intertidal environments.

Synergistic Modulation of Neuroendocrine-Inflammation Pathway by microRNAs

MiRNAs exert precise control over the neuroendocrineinflammation pathway by targeting key genes involved in signaling cascades, transcriptional regulation, and effector functions. Through a series of interactions with their target mRNAs, miRNAs fine-tune the expression of genes encoding neuropeptides, neurotransmitter receptors, hormone receptors, cytokines, and immune effectors, thereby modulating the sensitivity, duration, and amplitude of physiological responses. Importantly, emerging evidence suggests that multiple miRNAs may cooperatively target different components of the neuroendocrine-inflammation pathway, resulting in synergistic effects that amplify or attenuate signaling outputs in a context-dependent manner [9-10].

Conclusion

In conclusion, the synergistic modulation of the neuroendocrineinflammation pathway by miRNAs represents a key mechanism underlying the intertidal adaptation of molluscs. Understanding the regulatory networks governed by miRNAs holds great promise for advancing our knowledge of molluscan physiology and ecology, as well as for developing innovative strategies for the conservation and management of molluscan populations facing environmental challenges in intertidal habitats.

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