Activity patterns of neurosecretory cells releasing pheromonotropic neuropeptides in the moth Bombyx mori

Short- and long-term firing patterns of neurosecretory cells releasing pheromonotropic neuropeptides in the silkworm moth Bombyx mori were examined. The cells showed three types of rhythmic changes in firing activity. Bursting activities with an interval of several seconds were synchronized with rhythmic abdominal motions for calling behavior. A slow fluctuation in firing activity over a period of several minutes depended on cyclic alternations of the flow of hemolymph. The electrical activity displayed a diel rhythm that related to light/dark cycles of the environment and sex pheromone titers in the pheromone gland. In addition to a transient inhibition of firing caused by a tactile or light stimulus, a long-term permanent inhibition was induced by mating with a fertile male. Thus, the insect neurosecretory system is highly coordinated with physiology and behavior in Bombyx mori and is influenced by external stimuli.