Publications (2)3.29 Total impact
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Article: Expression and distribution of cellulase, amylase and peptidase isoforms along the midgut of Morimus funereus L. (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) larvae is dependent on nutrient substrate composition.
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ABSTRACT: The influence of diet composition - two substrates, wheat bran and sawdust - on isoform expression of digestive enzymes (cellulase, amylase and peptidase) in the midgut of Morimus funereus larvae was examined. Their impact on larval development was demonstrated by measuring the increase of larval weight during development and by analysis of digestive enzymes zymographic profiles, where the expression of cellulase isoforms from M. funereus larvae midgut has been examined for the first time in this study. Larvae reared on wheat bran had higher body weight between day 60 and day 100 than larvae reared on sawdust; however, both groups achieved similar body weight after day 110. Wheat bran as substrate induced different cellulase and amylase isoforms. Oak sawdust in substrate acted as inducer of peptidases. The highest cellulase activity and the greatest isoform variability were detected in the midgut extracts of larvae reared on wheat bran. From our results it can be assumed that M. funereus endocellulase, amylase and peptidase are secreted in the anterior midgut, and their concentration gradually decreases towards the hindgut.Comparative biochemistry and physiology. Part B, Biochemistry & molecular biology 02/2013; 164(4):259-267. · 1.61 Impact Factor -
Article: Adaptations to captive breeding of the longhorn beetle Morimus funereus (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae); application on amylase study
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ABSTRACT: Captive breeding has been suggested as a method of conservation for many vertebrates, and is increasingly being proposed as a strategy for invertebrates. In this study, the growth, development and fertility of adults of the vulnerable cerambycid Morimus funereus reared in captivity are examined. Two oviposition cycles; from May to September and from January to March were studied and larvae from wild adults and from the progeny of captive adults (second generation larvae) were examined. Five to 12 instars were observed during larval development. Larval development was completed in 218 days (average) for the progeny of wild adults with an average mortality rate of 10.3% and in 226 days (average) for larvae from captive adults with mortality rate of 34.9%. First generation larval body weights were disparate during development, while second generation larvae had similar weights with no significant differences. In this study we have tested the potential of captive breaded M. funereus larvae as a model for investigation of digestive enzymes. Amylase from the midgut of larvae reared under laboratory conditions showed twofold higher specific activities with a decreased number of isoforms expressed, as compared to the enzyme from field-collected larvae. Captive breeding of M. funereus can be used in the future as a part of an effective conservation strategy for this rare insect species.Journal of Insect Conservation 01/2012; 16:239-247. · 1.69 Impact Factor
