ABSTRACT
Using immunohistochemistry and western blot analysis, we demonstrate that melanopsin is localised in cells around the central pore of lateral line neuromasts in the African clawed frog, Xenopus laevis. Since melanopsin is a known photoreceptor pigment with diverse functions in vertebrates, we suggest that the lateral line of Xenopus laevis, which is primarily a mechanoreceptor, might also be light sensitive. Potential functions of such photosensitivity are discussed, including its role in mediating locomotor responses following dermal illumination.
Footnotes
Author contributions
G.E.B. and R.H.D. conceived the study. G.E.B. performed the immunohistochemistry, for which W.J.d.G. provided the antibody. H.-J.W. performed most of the microscopy. R.G.F. and M.T. carried out the western blot analysis and R.H.D. performed the photactic experiments. All authors contributed to the interpretation of data. R.H.D. drafted the manuscript, which was edited by all authors, except G.E.B., prior to submission.
Funding
This work was supported by the European Office of Aerospace Research & Development [F61708-98-W0026 to W.J.d.G.] and the Wellcome Trust [090684/Z/09/Z and 098461/Z/12/Z to R.G.F.]. Deposited in PMC for release after 6 months.
