Characterization of larval specific proteins from Manduca Sexta Verson's glands

Found in all Lepidopteran larvae, Verson's glands are paired, epidermally derived glands located primarily dorsolaterally in each segment. Each gland is comprised of three cells and produces proteinaceous secretions which coat the epicuticle at the time of ecdysis. In Manduca sexta, some of these proteins have been found to be stage specific. Larval specific proteins from Manduca sexta were characterized by electrophoretic mobility and isoelectric point. These proteins were then identified by tandem mass spectrometry and database comparison.