Contribution of male-produced proteins to vitellogenesis in Melanoplus sanguinipes

The transfer during copulation of radioactively labelled male accessory reproductive gland (ARG) protein and its accumulation by the ovary of Melanoplus sanguinipes have been studied. Most of the transferred material leaves the spermatheca within 24 hr and enters the haemolymph from which it can be accumulated by the ovary. Injection of labelled male ARG protein into vitellogenic females demonstrates that during the first 24 hr after injection, accumulation by the ovary is rapid. Immunoprecipitation and immunoelectrophoretic studies indicate that some of the ARG protein is accumulated unchanged. It is proposed that when the male transfers several spermatophores during copulation, he may make a significant contribution of protein to the developing oöcytes.