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Updated: Jul 15, 2026
Functional Analysis of the Larval Feeding Circuit in Drosophila
Published on: November 19, 2013
Biphasic perimicrovillar membrane production following feeding by previously starved Dysdercus peruvianus (Hemiptera:
João C Damasceno-Sá1, Cíntia N B Carneiro, Renato A DaMatta
1Laboratório de Química e Função de Proteínas e Peptídeos, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, CEP 28013-600, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brazil.
Abstract:
The development of perimicrovillar membranes (PMM) from midgut cells of starved and fed Dysdercus peruvianus was studied by using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and assays for specific enzymatic markers of the perimicrovillar membranes (alpha-glucosidase), perimicrovillar space (aminopeptidase) and microvillar membranes (beta-glucosidase). High activities of these enzymes were observed 6h post-feeding and significant production of membranes was observed at 30 h post-feeding. In the gut cells of starved insects, the rough endoplasmic reticulum was organized in concentric bundles, with a greater number of mitochondria in the cellular apex. The presence of electron dense double-membrane vesicles and the production of PMM were not observed in this condition. Thirty hours post-feeding, a disorganization of the rough endoplasmic reticulum was observed, and it was possible to see double-membrane vesicles close to the cell apex. The membrane system formation was evident with a significant development of PMM in the midgut lumen. The luminal surface of the midgut during starvation and up to 48 h post-feeding was monitored using SEM. It was demonstrated that in the starved condition, the PMM was virtually absent from gut cells, except at the base of the microvilli. At 6h post-feeding, the microvilli were already completely covered with PMM, but with a maximum of PMM formation seen at 30 h post-feeding. Signals of PMM degradation were observed 48 h after pulse feeding.
Insights
Perimicrovillar membranes (PMM) in Dysdercus peruvianus midgut cells are absent when starved but rapidly develop after feeding, peaking at 30 hours. These membranes are crucial for nutrient absorption and are degraded by 48 hours post-feeding.
Area of Science:
- Insect physiology and cell biology
- Gastrointestinal development and function
- Membrane biogenesis
Background:
- Perimicrovillar membranes (PMM) are specialized structures in insect midgut cells.
- Their formation and function are linked to feeding status and nutrient absorption.
- Understanding PMM development is key to insect digestive physiology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the development of perimicrovillar membranes (PMM) in Dysdercus peruvianus midgut cells.
- To correlate PMM formation with feeding status and enzymatic activity.
- To elucidate the cellular mechanisms underlying PMM biogenesis and degradation.
Main Methods:
- Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were used to visualize PMM.
- Enzymatic assays were performed to detect alpha-glucosidase, aminopeptidase, and beta-glucosidase.
- Insects were studied under starved and fed conditions at various time points post-feeding.
Main Results:
- PMM were virtually absent in starved insects but rapidly formed after feeding.
- High enzyme activities (alpha-glucosidase, aminopeptidase) were observed 6 hours post-feeding.
- Significant PMM development occurred by 30 hours post-feeding, with degradation observed at 48 hours.
Conclusions:
- PMM formation in Dysdercus peruvianus is a dynamic process regulated by feeding.
- The rough endoplasmic reticulum and specific vesicles are involved in PMM biogenesis.
- PMM play a vital role in nutrient absorption and undergo timely degradation.
