Ancient appetite-control molecule found in humans, starfish

Researchers at Queen Mary University of London have found an ancient molecule that controls appetite in both humans and starfish. This neurohormone, called bombesin, has been around for more than 500 million years, dating back to before vertebrates evolved. Bombesin helps signal when we are full. It was first discovered in the skin of the fire-bellied toad. This small peptide not only reduces meal size but also increases the time between meals. Scientists believe that bombesin-like neurohormones are essential for regulating food intake in many animals. The team, led by Professor Maurice Elphick, examined the genomes of various invertebrates. They found genes related to bombesin in common starfish and other species like sea urchins. This research was a significant challenge, but they succeeded in uncovering these ancient appetite-control genes. To understand how bombesin functions in starfish, the researchers focused on a specific version called ArBN. They discovered that when injected into starfish, ArBN caused their stomachs to retract after feeding and delayed their feeding behavior. This research connects the appetite control systems of starfish and humans, suggesting that this regulatory mechanism has existed for hundreds of millions of years. The findings may also help in developing new weight-loss drugs and managing starfish populations that invade human fisheries. Overall, this study highlights the surprising links between human biology and the feeding behavior of starfish. The research was supported by various funding organizations, including BBSRC and the Leverhulme Trust.