Neb-Colloostatin, a Second Folliculostatin of the Grey Fleshfly, Neobellieria Bullata

Abstract

During the purification of trypsin-modulating oostatic factor (TMOF) of the grey fleshfly Neobellieria bullata, a new factor with oostatic activity was discovered. We report herein its purification, primary structure and effects on oocyte development. Its amino acid sequence was determined as H-SIVPLGLPVPIGPIVVGPR-OH. Due to structural sequence similarities with parts of several known collagens and its oostatic activity, we named it Neb-colloostatin. The synthetic peptide inhibits yolk uptake by previtellogenic oocytes and might have a role in the absence of yolk deposition in penultimate oocytes. Neb-colloostatin does not inhibit trypsin biosynthesis in the gut or ecdysone biosynthesis by larval ring glands. It decreases vitellogenin concentrations in the hemolymph by an unknown mode of action. The role of extracellular matrix proteins in the feedback control of growth is discussed.