Abstract
Insect growth and development are intricately regulated by the titers of juvenile hormones (JHs) and ecdysteroids (and/or their metabolites) in the insect hemolymph. Hydrolysis of the methyl ester of JH by a JH-specific esterase (JHE) is a key pathway for the degradation of JH. Here, we generate transgenic silkworm strains that overexpress JHE by using the binary GAL4/UAS system. Overexpression of JHE from the embryonic stage resulted in larval-pupal metamorphosis after the third stadium, two stadia earlier than that observed in wild-type insects. This precocious metamorphosis suggests that JHs are not critical for normal development of embryo or larva before the second molt in Lepidoptera (moths and butterflies). Our transgenic approach allowed us to dissect the function of key physiological events that occur from embryogenesis. Until now, these types of studies were possible only in later larval stadia by using physical techniques such as allatectomy or the application of JH analogues. We believe that our system will allow further pioneering studies in insect physiology.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
