Synthesis and deposition of chitin in larvae of the Australian sheep blowfly, Lucilia cuprina

Abstract

AbstractChitin synthesis in third‐instar Lucilia cuprina larvae cultured at 23 °C was investigated using in vivo and in vitro systems, the latter with whole and with homogenized integuments. Synthesis was at a maximum between 24 and 48h after ecdysis from the second instar. Chitin was deposited in layers, and labeled GlcNAc was rapidly cleared from the hemolymph. In in vitro homogenate systems, the rapid conversion of UDP‐([14C]GlcN)Ac to ([14C]GlcN)Ac and its 1‐phosphate derivative contributed to the low incorporation of this precursor into chitin. The extent of the conversion was reduced by the addition of KCN or phenylthiourea. In in vivo and in vitro tissue systems the level of incorporation of ([14C]ClcN)Ac was higher than that of UDP‐([14C]GlcN)Ac. However, in in vitro homogenate systems there was no difference unless UTP was added when the level of incorporation of only ([14C]GlcN)Ac was increased (by a factor of 9). Incorporation of UDP‐([14C]GlcN)Ac, but not that of ([14C]GlcN)Ac, was decreased when larvae were deprived of food. Soluble oligosaccharides were detected in in vitro homogenate systems. They were formed during chitin synthesis and may represent newly initiated chitin chains. A reappraisal of current ideas on chitin synthesis in insects is needed.