Molecular mechanisms of self / non-self recognition and tissue-remodeling during metamorphosis.

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During metamorphosis of holometabolous insects, larval tissues that become unnecessary are eliminated by pupal hemocytes, whereas imaginal discs start to differentiate into adult tissues. In this research, we focused on molecules that drive insect metamorphosis and mainly analyzed molecular bases that underlie (1) recognition and elimimation of larval tissues and (2) formation of adult tissues during metamorphosis. We also analyzed (3) molecular basis of insect social behaviors as a new project, to gain more perspective in our research.Concerning project (1), we identified and cloned a novel hemocyte membrane protein that participates in recognition of larval tissues and a protease that is expressed in pupal mid gut of the flesh fly. We also determined complete genome sequence of Buchnera, a intracellular simbiont of aphid, to discuss possible evolution of intracellular simbiosis in insects. Concerning project (2), we have established an in vitro system of remodeling of larval central nervous system by adittion of ecdysone ; identified novel proteins (humoral lectins and extaracellular matrix proteins) that are expressed transiently during cockroach leg regeneration ; and identified and analyzed functions of novel genes that participate in morphogenesis in Drosophila (dad, brinker and Dally). Concerning project (3), we identified and analyzed genes expressed differently in the honeybee brain depending on their behaviors. We also analyzed functional flexibility of worker secretory (hypopharyngeal) gland cells depending on their division of labor. Many original and valuable findings have been obtained through this research and are expected to contribute to further development of this research area,