The fat body of termites: Functions and stored materials

Author(s)

Costa-Leonardo, Ana Maria ^[1] ; Laranjo, Lara Teixeira ^[1] ; Janei, Vanelize ^[1] ; Haifig, Ives ^[1]

Affiliation

^[1] Univ Estadual Paulista UNESP, Inst Biociencias, Dept Biol, Lab Cupins, BR-13506900 Rio Claro, SP - Brazil

• Document type: Review article
• Source: JOURNAL OF INSECT PHYSIOLOGY; v. 59, n. 6, p. 577-587, JUN 2013.
• Web of Science Citations: 17

Abstract

The functions of the fat body in the different castes of termites, and accumulation of energy reserves, proteins and urates within this organ, are reviewed. The termite fat body is involved in multiple metabolic activities, including recycling of nitrogen. Termite fat body showed three different types of cells: adipocytes, urocytes and mycetocytes, the latter restricted to the species Mastotermes darwiniensis. Adipocytes synthesize and store lipids, glycogen and several proteins. These cells also elaborate important peptides, including some that act in immune processes. Urocytes are responsible for the storage of spherocrystals of urates, which vary quantitatively among the termite castes. The different metabolic functions of the fat body in the several castes and stages of termites are associated with specific adipocyte morphologies. The synthesis and storage of different compounds modify the structure of the fat body; this differentiation is coordinated by hormones involved with molting and reproductive cycles. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 10/05030-7 - Fat body modifications in virgin and functional queens of pest termites coptotermes gestroi and Cryptotermes brevis (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae, Kalotermitidae): an ultrastructural approach
• Grantee: Ana Maria Costa-Leonardo
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants