Protein synthesis in the corpora allata of the cockroach Diploptera punctata

grantor: University of TorontoProtein synthesis in the cockroach Diploptera punctata changes depending on the developmental stage. In mated females, changes in protein synthesis parallels the cycle of juvenile hormone (JH) biosynthesis, although the cycle of protein synthesis is delayed by one-two days. JH biosynthesis is high on days 4 and 5 (maximum) and then decreases on day 6. Increased protein synthesis occurs on days 4, 5 and 6 (maximum) and then decreases on day 7. This apparent relationship was investigated further by using the inhibitors of protein synthesis, cycloheximide, anisomycin and actinomycin D or inhibitors of JH biosynthesis, the allatostatins, and examining effects on both processes. Protein synthesis was measured in vitro using incorporation of ($\sp{35}$S) -methionine, and JH biosynthesis measured using the radiochemical assay. The transcription inhibitor actinomycin D did not significantly inhibit protein synthesis in mated CA. However, translation inhibitors almost completely inhibited protein synthesis (89-94%). Neither transcription nor translation inhibitors have a significant effect on JH biosynthesis by the CA of day 7 mated females. Dip-AST 7 and 13 appear to have specific effects on the synthesis of certain proteins. Dip-AST 2, the most potent inhibitor of JH biosynthesis, showed no effect on protein synthesis.M.Sc