Studies on vitellogenesis in the American cockroach

• Published in: Journal of insect physiology Vol. 12; no. 7; pp. 767,IN3,777 - 776,IN5,779
• Main Authors: Mills, Richard R., Greenslade, Forrest C., Couch, Ernest F.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01.01.1966
• ISSN: 0022-1910; 1879-1611
• DOI: 10.1016/0022-1910(66)90029-1

An oötheca is produced approximately every 6 days by the female American cockroach. Feeding takes place on the first 2 or 3 days of this 6 day cycle and the blood protein level peaks on the fourth day. Most of the yolk protein is deposited on the last 2 days of the cycle. Total RNA concentrations have been determined for both the midgut and fat body during the cycle, and the results of these experiments suggest that both organs take part in blood protein synthesis. Ultrastructural examination of these two tissues support this contention. Cauterization of the medial neurosecretory cells results in a decrease of blood protein levels. Allatectomy causes a rise in blood protein and prevents vitellogenesis. Implantation of three active corpora allata restores both the normal blood protein level and vitellogenesis. A humoral control of blood protein synthesis is postulated and the hormonal and/or nervous control of vitellogenesis and subsequent oötheca production is discussed.