Int. J. Dev. Biol. 35: 83 - 90 (1991)

Vol 35, Issue 2

Localization of regenectin in regenerates of American cockroach (Periplaneta americana) legs

Published: 1 June 1991

T Kubo, K Kawasaki, Y Nonomura and S Natori

Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Tokyo, Japan.

Abstract

The localization of regenectin, a sucrose-binding C-type lectin, in the regeneration of the cockroach leg was investigated by immunoblotting and immunofluorescence studies. Regenectin was found to appear transiently around developing muscle cells in regenerating legs in the late stage of regeneration. With maturation of the muscles, it disappeared and was not detectable in completely regenerated legs. These findings suggest that regenectin is a cementing substance connecting developing muscle cells. Regenectin was not detected in embryos or nymphal legs at various developmental stages, suggesting that it might not be involved in normal development of embryos and legs.