The behavioral and developmental physiology of nematocysts

Abstract

Nematocysts are the nonliving secretions of specialized cells, the nematocytes, which develop from multipotent stem cells. Nematocysts are the means by which coelenterates capture prey and defend against predation. The 25 or more known types of nematocysts can be divided into to four functional categories: those that pierce, ensnare, or adhere to prey, and those that adhere to the substrate. During development a collagenous cyst, which may contain toxins, forms; a hollow thread, which becomes coiled as it invaginates, develops. Maturing nematocyte–nematocyst complexes migrate to their discharge sites and are deployed in specific patterns. The mechanisms of pattern determination are not clear. Discharge of nematocysts appears to involve increases in intracapsular osmotic pressure consequent upon release of bound calcium within the capsule; the eversion of the filament may depend upon release of structural tension consequent upon a loss of zinc from the thread. Evidence exists that discharge is initiated as a calcium-dependent exocytosis, triggered by an electrical signal resulting from the transduction of mechanical stimuli received at the nematocyte's cnidocil. Chemical signals transduced in adjacent sensory cells alter the frequency response of the nematocyte. In opposition to the nematocyte–nematocyst independent effector hypothesis, excitatory and inhibitory neuronal input appears to regulate discharge.