cDNA cloning and transcript distribution of two novel members of the neuroparsin family in the desert locust, Schistocerca gregaria

This study describes the identification and distribution of two novel neuroparsin precursor transcripts (Scg-NPP3/Scg-NPP4) in the desert locust, Schistocerca gregaria. Unlike Scg-NPP1 and Scg-NPP2, both transcripts were not only detected in the brain, but also in various other tissues, such as fat body, ventral nerve cord, testis and male accessory glands. Northern analysis showed that the levels of these transcripts are regulated during larval development, as well as during moulting and reproductive cycles. A significant increase in both mRNAs was observed during the period that just precedes the initial sexual activity of adult females and males.status: publishe