Regulatory Determinants of JH-esterase Activity Polymorphism

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The basic goal of this proposal is to determine the physiological mechanisms that cause individuals of the cricket Gryllus rubens to produce either a high or low amount of the key enzyme juvenile hormone esterase. High enzyme concentration causes individuals to develop into a long-winged, dispersing form while low enzyme concentration causes the development of short-winged, flightless adults. This research will clarify the mechanisms by which hormones regulate important developmental processes in insects. Since amount of juvenile hormone esterase produced is genetically determined, this study will be especially important in identifying genetic aspects of the hormonal regulation of development. In addition, these high and low-enzyme genotypes of G. rubens are found naturally in the field. Thus, this study will also identify how evolution is altering development to produce a new phenotype (short-winged, non-flying form in this case). This is currently one of the most important but poorly understood aspects of evolution. Last, by providing information on the regulation of development, this study will provide important background information for applied studies that attempt to disrupt development to control insect populations. //