Melanophore β-adrenoceptors in patterning in a flatfish, Pseudopleuronectes americanus

Abstract

In vitro experiments were performed on melanophores bourne on scale slips sampled from three major areas (general background, dark band, and white spot) of the integumentary pattern of winter flounder, Pseudopleuronectes americanus (Walbaum, 1792). The effects of the respective β1- and β2-adrenoceptor agonists dobutamine and terbutaline and antagonists atenolol and ICI 118551 on pattern-related melanosome aggregation in response to exogenously applied L-noradrenaline were determined, as well as their effects on melanosome dispersion in balanced salt solution. The results demonstrate β1-adrenoceptor mediation in flatfish melanosome dispersion, with pattern-related variation, and also provide further evidence for β2-subtype involvement. Based on mammalian physiology, two β-subtypes will facilitate melanophore responsiveness to both neural and circulatory catecholamines. The in vivo role of these β-subtypes is discussed in relation to previously described attributes of the patterning behaviour of this species, which incorporates balances between α- and β-adrenoceptors. Dark band melanophores display a β-adrenoceptor bias, in contrast with other areas of the pattern, which would be consistent with their capacity for pigment dispersion in stressed flounders and with the slow paling of these bands during background-related responses.