Peptidomics of the pars intercerebralis–corpus cardiacum complex of the migratory locust, Locusta migratoria

The pars intercerebralis-corpora cardiaca system (PI-CC) of insects is the endocrinological equivalent of the hypothalamus-pituitary system of vertebrates. Peptide profiles of the pars intercerebralis and the corpora cardiaca were characterized using simple sampling protocols in combination with MALDI-TOF and electrospray ionization double quadrupole time of flight (ESI-Qq-TOF) mass spectrometric technologies. The results were compared with earlier results of conventional sequencing methods and immunocytochemical methods. In addition to many known peptides, several m/z signals corresponding to putative novel peptides were observed in the corpora cardiaca and/or pars intercerebralis. Furthermore, for a number of peptides evidence was provided about their localization and MALDI-TOF analysis of the released material from the corpora cardiaca yielded information on the hormonal status of particular brain peptides.