Synthesis of vitellogenins and diapause proteins by the fat body of Leptinotarsa, as a function of photoperiod

ABSTRACT. During maturation of adult female Leptinotarsa decemlineata , synthesis of specific proteins by the fat body was investigated with the aid of in vitro incubations. Both vitellogenins and diapause proteins were present in all females. Under long days high rates of vitellogenin synthesis were observed, which were not reflected in the amount of vitellogenin present in the haemolymph. Under short days synthesis of three diapause proteins predominated. The highest rates of synthesis of these proteins occurred during the second half of the prediapause period. At the same time storage of two diapause proteins by the fat body was observed. Comparison of the synthesis of specific proteins in vivo and in vitro revealed the fat body as the main producer of haemolymph proteins.