Abstract
Diapause is most often observed in insects and is a physiologically dormant state different from other types of dormancy, such as hibernation. It allows insects to survive in harsh environments or extend longevity. In general, larval, pupal, or adult non-diapausing insects possess an innate immune system preventing the invasion of microorganisms into their bodies; however, it is unclear whether this system works under the dormant condition of diapause. We here report the occurrence of innate cellular reactions during diapause using pupae of a giant silkmoth, Samia cynthia pryeri. Scanning electron microscopic analysis demonstrated the presence of two major types of cells in the body fluid isolated from the thoracic region of a pupa. Phagocytosis and encapsulation, characteristics of innate cellular reactions, by these cells were observed when latex beads as foreign targets were microinjected into the internal portion of a pupa. Such behavior by these cells was still observed even when pupae were continuously chilled at 4. °C. Our results indicate that innate cellular reactions can work in diapausing insects in a dormant state.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 351-357 |
Number of pages | 7 |
Journal | Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications |
Volume | 410 |
Issue number | 2 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 1 Jul 2011 |
Keywords
- Diapause
- Dormancy
- Hemocyte
- Innate immune system
- Insect
- Pupae