Characterization of cDNA and expression of mRNA encoding an Achatina cardioexcitatory RFamide peptide

Achatina cardioexcitatory peptide-1 (ACEP-1) is an RFamide family peptide isolated from the atria of the African giant snail, Achatina fulica. In this report, we describe an identification of the ACEP-1 cDNA sequence and localizations of the ACEP-1 mRNA. Southern blot analysis revealed that the ACEP-1 mRNA was present in the atrium as well as in the central nervous system. Furthermore, in situ hybridization revealed the localizations of the ACEP-1 mRNA in small neurons of the cerebral and pedal ganglia and a few large neurons of the right parietal and visceral ganglia.