INTEGUMENTAL GRAFTING AND IMMUNO-RECOGNITION IN INSECTS

  • 1 January 1982
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 6  (4) , 643-654
Abstract
Integumental grafting was conducted on a range of insect species [Schistocera gregaria, Locusta migratoria, Clitumnus extradentatus, Extatosoma tiaratum, Blaberus caniifer, Periplaneta americana] in order to elucidate levels of insect immunorecognition. Subsequently, only B. craniifer and E. tiaratum were utilized for detailed study because of their high survival rates and longevity. In both host species, most autografts and allografts rapidly healed, and were accepted while xenografts usually became melanized and were rejected. A significant correlation was obtained between the mean rejection times, which ranged from 8.0 .+-. 1.8 days to 28.2 .+-. 6.6 days and the phylogenetic relatedness of the xenograft donors to the host species. A histological investigation revealed the accumulation of blood cells below the grafts, a process that was much more marked with xenografts than with autografts.