25 July 2016
Diploptera punctata is the main subject of research in this lab. It is widely known for being the only viviparous cockroach in the world (i.e. the embryos are nourished by the mother during development). As well, it is easy to dissect (click for a tutorial) and produces large quantities of juvenile hormone. Thus, they are very useful to studies of insect endocrinology. This lab has been partially responsible for identifying the factors (called allatostatins) that control the synthesis and release of juvenile hormone, and is engaged in studying the evolution and method of action of the allatostatins.
