The development of insects is controlled by cerebral neurohormones that when released at precise times evoke a cascade of endocrine events that culminate in molting and metamorphosis. The principal neurohormone in this process is the peptide prothoracicotropic hormone (PPTH), which based upon size exists as two families of peptides. This research is involved with understanding the chemistry and physiology of one of these families, the small PTTHs. Knowledge gained from this research on a simple cerebral neuroendocrine system will contribute to our understanding of the development and functioning of the fundamental neuronal type, neurosecretory cell, that through its production of neuropeptides regulates most of the life processes of an organism. Additionally, insight into the mechanisms by which neurohormones control insect development and reproduction could lead to the development of environmentally innocuous and specific strategies for insect control.
