<i>In silico</i> identification of neurohormones and neuropeptides and their G protein-coupled receptors in the sheep scab mite <i>Psoroptes ovis</i>: potential targets for alternative control strategies

The genome of the sheep scab mite, Psoroptes ovis, was analysed for presence neuropeptide and neurohormone precursors their G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). Many these showed significant similarities to those known or predicted from other Acaridae also insect species. Similarities orthologous Ovis aries, host P. were evaluated. roles neuropeptides neurohormones in control behavioural physiological processes such as osmoregulation, reproduction, growth development are discussed. GPCRs offer potential targets next-generation acaricides. Modification normal receptor function by new chemistries that either block over-stimulate can result death mite alter its reproductive ability thereby suppressing populations. This work provides information required select GPCR ovis future