Chemistry and Biology of Ecdysis-Triggering Hormones

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Adams 9514678 Insect growth and development is associated with repeated shedding of the old exoskeleton or cuticle in a process called ecdysis. The successful performance of this complex behavior is crucial to the survival of developing insects. It appears that a newly described novel endocrine system regulates ecdysis in moths and may be important to this develomental process in all insects. This novel endocrine system appears to produce multiple hormones. The identification of these hormones is paramount to Dr. Adams' research endeavor. Once these factors have been chemical identified, reagents will be prepared that allow the localization and quantification of the hormones in the insect during development. Finally, the site and mechanism of ecdysis-triggering hormone action will be elucidated. This unique endocrine system provides opportunities to study the hormonal regulation of development and behavior from the molecular to the organismal level including information regarding the regulation of hormone sythesis, release and physiological action. Furthermore, premature administration of ecdysis-triggering hormone to early stages of larvae and pupae is lethal, these hormones may prove to be of great commercial significance in the biological control of insect pests.