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Synthesis and metabolism of vertebrate-type steroids by tissues of insects: A critical evaluation

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Summary

This review covers the synthesis and the metabolism of vertebrate-type steroids (progesterone, testosterone, estradiol, corticosteroids) by insect tissues and discusses the significance of the reactions for insect physiology. Biosynthesis of vertebrate-type steroids from cholesterol hitherto has been demonstrated in only two insect species, i.e. the water beetleAcilius sulcatus (Coleoptera) and the tobacco hornwormManduca sexta (Lepidoptera). InAcilius, steroid synthesis is associated with exosecretion (chemical defense). Nothing, however, is known about a physiological role of the C21 steroid conjugate present in ovaries and eggs ofManduca. No synthesis of vertebrate-type steroids was observed in any other insect investigated to date. Most metabolic conversions of steroids by insects concerned oxidoreduction of oxygen groups (hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activity) and (polar and apolar) conjugate formation. All important enzymatic steps involved in synthesis and catabolism, as known from studies with tissues of vertebrates, were not, or hardly observed. The conclusion is drawn that typical vertebrate-type (C21, C19 and C18) steroids probably do not act as physiologically active substances in insects.

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  1. L. Swevers

    Present address: Department of Medical Biochemistry, University of Calgary, 3330 Hospital Drive N. W., T2N 4N1, Calgary, Alberta, Canada

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Zoological Institute, Catholic University of Leuven, Naamsestraat 59, B-3000, Leuven, Belgium

    L. Swevers & J. G. D. Lambert

  2. Experimental Zoology, State University of Utrecht, Transitorium III, Padualaan 8, NL-3584, Utrecht, The Netherlands

    A. De Loof

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  1. L. Swevers
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  2. J. G. D. Lambert
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  3. A. De Loof
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Swevers, L., Lambert, J.G.D. & De Loof, A. Synthesis and metabolism of vertebrate-type steroids by tissues of insects: A critical evaluation. Experientia 47, 687–698 (1991). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01958817

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