Neurosecretory control of ovarian development in Schistocerca gregaria

Abstract

Cautery of the neurosecretory cells of the pars intercerebralis, or removal of the corpora cardiaca, will prevent the development of the terminal oocytes in the ovaries of the desert locust. Implantation of brains into females whose neurosecretory cells have been cauterized results in some development of the terminal oocytes. Ovariectomy of immature females causes a precocious accumulation of material in the neurosecretory system. Electrical stimulation, drastic wounding, or enforced activity of 14-day-old females reared without males brings about release of material from the neurosecretory system, and also accelerates development of the terminal oocytes. Copulation by these females also results in release of material from the neurosecretory system, and is followed by rapid terminal oocyte development. It is concluded that the neurosecretory system in Schistocerca gregaria exerts a positive control over oocyte development, and that copulation may stimulate release of material from the neurosecretory system.