Characterization of neuropeptide F and its receptor from the African malaria mosquito, Anopheles gambiae

The genome of Anopheles gambiae contains sequences encoding a neuropeptide F (Ang-NPF) and NPF receptor (Ang-NPFR) related to the neuropeptide Y signaling family. cDNAs for each were cloned and sequenced. Ang-NPFR was stably expressed for radioligand binding analysis. Ang-NPF exhibited high affinity (IC50 ∼ 3 nM) membrane binding; NPFs from Aedes aegypti (Aea-NPF) and Drosophila melanogaster (Drm-NPF) were less potent, with the rank order: Ang-NPF > Aea-NPF > Drm-NPF > Drm-NPF8-36. RT-PCR analysis revealed Ang-NPF and Ang-NPFR transcripts in all life stages. Ang-NPF and Ang-NPFR may be strategically positioned for signaling in relation to nutritional status in the African malaria mosquito.