How are comparative genomics and the study of microRNAs changing our views on arthropod endocrinology and adaptations to the environment?

Abstract

As the last few decades of work has shown, precise regulation of biosynthesis and release of arthropod hormones is essential to cope with environmental stresses and challenges. In crustaceans and insects, the sesquiterpenoids methyl farnesoate (MF), farnesoic acid (FA) and juvenile hormone (JH) regulate many developmental, physiological, and reproductive processes. In this review, we discuss how comparative genomics has and will impact our views on arthropod endocrinology. We will also highlight the current knowledge of regulation of genes involved in arthropod hormone biosynthesis by microRNAs, and describe the potential insights into arthropod endocrinology, evolution, and adaptation that are likely to come from the study of microRNAs.