Interactions between NPY and its receptor : assessment using ant-NPY antibodies

The present data show that monoclonal antibodies (NPY02, NPY03, NPY04, NPY05) directed against 4 distinct epitopes on NPY may have different actions on NPY binding and NPY-induced cellular responses. NPY02 and NPY05 recognize the 11-24 and 32-36 amidated form of NPY, respectively. These 2 antibodies block the binding of NPY to its receptor as well as the NPY-induced inhibition of cAMP accumulation caused in SK-N-MC cells by forskolin. NPY02 and NPY05 have also an inhibitory action on NPY-induced contraction of rabbit femoral arteries. NPY03 and NPY04 are directed against the 27-34 and 1-12 part of NPY, respectively. NPY03 and NPY04 inhibit the binding of NPY only at very high concentrations and have a weak effect on cAMP response to NPY. NPY02 and NPY05 might provide useful tools to study the effect of NPY in cellular systems and organ preparations

Morocco

Morocco has well developed irrigation facilities that range from small scale communal systems based on springs, qanats or river diversions to groundwater-based individual initiatives and large scale public schemes. Water demand policies – e.g. water pricing, shift to drip irrigation, 'aquifer contracts' and other forms of participatory management – have shown little potential in curbing overexploitation of resources in many basins. Expansion of irrigated areas and the priority given to productivity have taken their toll on the environment, favored commercial agriculture, and contributed to a net depletion of groundwater estimated at 1 billion m3/year. There is a need to better align agricultural development, water conservation, and environmental objectives. After a short historical perspective, this chapter first reviews a number of trends in the irrigation sector (modernization, development of groundwater resources, wastewater reuse and desalination), before turning to regulatory and institutional issues, including participatory management, economic tools, privatization and an examination of the Plan Maroc Vert. The threats posed by climate change, water scarcity, and environmental degradation are then discussed