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Journal of Cell Science, Vol 96, 537-547, Copyright © 1990 by Company of Biologists

Submitted on January 11, 1990
Accepted on April 4, 1990

Physiological and structural maturation of a polarised epithelium: the Malpighian tubules of a blood-sucking insect, Rhodnius prolixus

H. LE B. SKAER 1, J. B. HARRISON 1, and S. H. P. MADDRELL 1

1 AFRC Unit of Invertebrate Neurophysiology and Pharmacology, Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 2AA, UK

The development of polarity in a simple epithelium, the Malpighian tubules of Rhodnius, is analysed both ultrastructurally and physiologically. The onset of physiological function, including fluid secretion and the transport of solutes, is determined in late embryos and young hatchling insects and compared with structural development in tubules over a similar period. Two phases of maturation, separated by several days, are detected. The first, during late embryogenesis, involves the development of mature intercellular contacts and the dilation of the lumen, and is associated with the ability to transport specific solutes. The second phase involves the elaboration of the apical and basal membranes and the generation of mitochondria, and is associated with the onset of fluid transport in the tubules and with feeding in 4-day-old hatchlings.

Key words: development, fluid transport, transporting epithelium

Submitted on January 11, 1990
Accepted on April 4, 1990






© The Company of Biologists Ltd 1990