Localization of dopa decarboxylase in adult <i>Aedes aegypti</i> females

Abstract

Abstract Adult Aedes aegypti females contain very low levels of dopa decarboxylase activity. However, after a blood meal the activity of this enzyme rises dramatically. Most of the dopa decarboxylase activity is lost after females are allowed to oviposit. The bulk of the dopa decarboxylase activity observable was accounted for by direct assay of mature ovaries. Blood feeding did not stimulate any increase of dopa decarboxylase levels in ovariectomized females. It was concluded that after a blood meal the enzyme eventually becomes incorporated into the mature oocyte to be used for subsequent sclerotization when it is oviposited. Furthermore the presence of an intact resting ovary is necessary in order for the observed blood feeding stimulation of enzymatic activity to occur. This suggests that the follicular epithelium of the ovary may be the site of synthesis or activation of dopa decarboxylase.