Visualizing Molecular Functions and Cross-Species Activity of Sex-Peptide in Drosophila

• DOI: 10.1534/genetics.115.177550
• Publication Date: 2015-05-29T03:06:34Z
• Authors: Manabu Tsuda; Jean-Baptiste Peyre; Tsunaki Asano; Toshiro Aigaki
• Keywords: Melanogaster; Oviduct

The Drosophila melanogaster sex-peptide (melSP) is a seminal fluid component that induces postmating responses (PMR) of females via the receptor (SPR) . Although SP orthologs are found in many species, their functions remain poorly characterized. It unknown whether conserved across species or rather specific to each species. Here, we developed GFP-tagged melSP (G-SP) and used it visualize cross-species binding activity female reproductive system various First demonstrated ectopically expressed G-SP induced PMR D. bound system, most notably common oviduct. No occurred lacking SPR, indicating was dependent on SPR. Next tested binds oviducts from 11 using dissected tracts. observed six belonging group, but not those outside group. Injection reduced receptivity being consistent with ability bind G-SP. Thus SP-mediated appears be limited this SPR at high levels group; therefore, speculate an enhanced expression oviduct critical establish during evolution.