THE DEVELOPMENT OF AN ENZYME (TYROSINASE) IN THE PARTHENOGENETIC EGG OF THE GRASSHOPPER, MELANOPLUS DIFFERENTIALIS

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Abstract
Development and rate of growth of the enzyme tyrosinase were studied in the parthenogenetic egg of M. differentialis. A marked lag in the appearance of the enzyme in the parthenogenetic egg occurred. Total amt. of enzyme found in the parthenogenetic egg was approx. 50% of that found in the normal fertilized egg. Parthenogenetic eggs subjected to x-irradiation on the 5th day of development showed no change in the amt. and rate of production of the enzyme[long dash]suggesting, as in normal eggs, the production of the enzyme by the serosa cells. Results of expts. were presented which tended to show that arrested development, or ''killing of eggs, by low temp. did not produce lowered amts. of enzyme in eggs thus treated.'' Possible explanations for the production by parthenogenetic eggs of lowered amts. of enzyme were given.