EFFECT OF AN ANTICHOLINESTERASE ON THE CHOLINERGIC SYSTEM IN INSECT EGGS

Abstract

Eggs of the housefly and milkweed bug treated at an early stage of development with a lethal dose of parathion continue to develop normally, but the embryo fails to emerge. Histological examination of the treated eggs showed that the development of the embryo, particularly the nervous system, was not affected. However, the activity of cholinesterase (ChE) was inhibited. Concomitant with inhibition of ChE, increased amounts of acetylcholine were found. These findings are similar to those found in adult insects treated with other organophosphorus insecticides.