Evaluation of effects of different experimental compounds on midgut lipase activity in Galleria mellonella L. (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae)

Abstract :

In insects, lipase enzymes have key roles in utilizing, storing and transmitting lipids. Experimental compounds such as metal salts like potassium phosphate, magnesium nitrate and NaCl, buffers like EDTA and Tris, SDS and ethanol are commonly used in laboratory studies, and lack of knowledge to their possible effects on enzyme activity can lead to inaccurate conclusions in studies involve these enzymes. In this study, effects of these compounds on midgut lipase activity of Galleria mellonella that is an ideal insect for physiologic researchs for It’s simple rearing and large larvae, are evaluated. In order to this, The last instar larvae were dissected, samples were obtained and the effects of these compounds on enzyme activity were measured spectrophotometrically in 5 different concentrations. As obtained results, enzyme activity was reduced by 75% ethanol, 5 mMol magnesium nitrate and various concentrations of SDS, and was increased by NaCl and potassium phosphate in 5 mMol concentration. Concentrations up to 4 mMol of NaCl, potassium phosphate and magnesium nitrate, and also concentrations of 25, 50, 85 and 96 % of ethanol had no effect on enzyme activity


Keyword :

Lipase, Enzyme activity, Metal ions, Ethanol, Galleria mellonella


Author(s) : Alipour, E., Pour Abad, R. F., Valizadeh, M., Mohammadi, D.
Downloads : 1764
Published Issue : 2013 Vol. 8 Number 1


2013 Vol. 8 Number 1