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A novel target for antidiuretic hormone in insects
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|August 26, 1988
Summary
In house crickets, a novel antidiuretic hormone inhibits Malpighian tubule fluid secretion, unlike previously known factors affecting only the hindgut. This dehydration-triggered hormone suggests a unique insect water balance regulation mechanism.
Area of Science:
- Insect physiology
- Endocrinology
- Comparative physiology
Background:
- Insect diuresis is regulated by diuretic and antidiuretic hormones.
- Antidiuretic factors traditionally promote hindgut fluid reabsorption.
- No known antidiuretic factors affect Malpighian tubule secretion.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the mechanism of antidiuretic hormone action in the house cricket, Acheta domesticus.
- To determine if antidiuretic hormone affects Malpighian tubule secretion or hindgut reabsorption.
- To identify the source and regulation of this antidiuretic hormone.
Main Methods:
- Hormone assays in hemolymph.
- Analysis of neurosecretory granule density in corpora cardiaca.
- Observation of hormone effects on Malpighian tubules and hindgut.
Main Results:
- A novel antidiuretic hormone was identified in Acheta domesticus.
- This hormone specifically inhibits fluid secretion by the Malpighian tubules.
- The hormone's release from neurosecretory axons in the corpora cardiaca is triggered by dehydration.
Conclusions:
- House crickets possess an unusual antidiuretic hormone that acts on Malpighian tubules, not the hindgut.
- This finding reveals a distinct mechanism for water balance regulation in insects.
- Neurosecretory axons in the corpora cardiaca are implicated in the release of this hormone.
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