RNA, PROTEIN AND URIC ACID CONTENT OF BODY TISSUES OF PERIPLANETA AMERICANA (L.) AS INFLUENCED BY CORPORA ALLATA DURING OVARIAN DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

1. The concentrations of RNA, proteins, and uric acid in the body tissues of allatectomized and sham-operated female roaches were measured at intervals after the imaginal molt. The concentrations of RNA and proteins were substantially lower in allatectomized females when compared with sham-operated females. Uric acid concentration remained approximately constant in allatectomized females, while in the controls it increased to more than double the concentration observed in the allatectomized females. 2. The rate of incorporation of tritium-labelled amino acids into the fat body of allatectomized females was slow compared to that of the sham-operated roaches. A very slow rate of incorporation into ovarian tissue was observed in allatectomized females, as against a rapid rate of incorporation in the controls. 3. Midgut tissue of allatectomized roaches exhibited a significantly greater incorporation of isotope than that of sham-operated females. 4. The probable relationship between corpora allata and the synthesis of RNA, proteins, and uric acid during ovarian development has been discussed.