A cycle of reproductive development in the cockroach D. punctata is manifested by changes in the structure and function of the corpus allatum (CA). In mated females, the CA cells proliferate producing a distinct mitotic wave, CA volume increases, and juvenile hormone (JH) production increases as well. Chilling for 3h in 0 oC has little effect on the CA volume increase and JH production, but significantly suppresses mitotic divisions in the CA (Pszczolkowski and Chiang, Journal of Insect Physiology 46: 923-931).
Recently we have found that antennae are involved in transmitting the stimulus affecting the CA cell divisions during application of chilling stress. Removal of antennae before chilling restored mitotic wave in the CA. This response was proportional to the part of antennae removed, and to the length of time that the antennae were exposed to 0 oC. Antennae removal after chilling did not restore mitotic divisions in the CA.
Species 1: Diploptera punctata (Hawaiian cockroach)
Keywords: corpus allatum, proliferation
The ESA 2001 Annual Meeting - 2001: An Entomological Odyssey of ESA