Characterization and molecular evolution of a piscidin gene from Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua L.)

Fish losses from infectious diseases are a significant problem in aquaculture worldwide. To further our understanding of the teleost immune system as well as to find new components for disease management in aquaculture, we have been investigating the role of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) in the innate immune response of Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua). Piscidins are a-helical AMPs, which are known to be present in modern teleosts, both in marine and freshwater species (Silphaduang et al., 2006). These group comprises peptides of 22-25 amino acid (aa) residues, which are rich in basic amino acids and have potent broad spectrum activity against bacteria, fungus, multicellular parasites and some enveloped virus. In this study we report the finding and molecular characterization of a new piscidin family member from a basal teleost, the Atlantic cod.