Chitin metabolism in insects: structure, function and regulation of chitin synthases and chitinases

Hans Merzendorfer; Lars Zimoch

doi:10.1242/jeb.00709

journal article Dec 15, 2003

Chitin metabolism in insects: structure, function and regulation of chitin synthases and chitinases

Hans Merzendorfer Lars Zimoch

Journal of Experimental Biology Vol. 206 No. 24 pp. 4393-4412 · The Company of Biologists

View at Publisher Save 10.1242/jeb.00709

Abstract

SUMMARYChitin is one of the most important biopolymers in nature. It is mainly produced by fungi, arthropods and nematodes. In insects, it functions as scaffold material, supporting the cuticles of the epidermis and trachea as well as the peritrophic matrices lining the gut epithelium. Insect growth and morphogenesis are strictly dependent on the capability to remodel chitin-containing structures. For this purpose, insects repeatedly produce chitin synthases and chitinolytic enzymes in different tissues. Coordination of chitin synthesis and its degradation requires strict control of the participating enzymes during development. In this review, we will summarize recent advances in understanding chitin synthesis and its degradation in insects.

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Details

Published: Dec 15, 2003
Vol/Issue: 206(24)
Pages: 4393-4412

Authors

H

Hans Merzendorfer

Department of Biology/Chemistry, University of Osnabrück, 49069 Osnabrück, Germany

L

Lars Zimoch

Department of Biology/Chemistry, University of Osnabrück, 49069 Osnabrück, Germany

Cite This Article

Hans Merzendorfer, Lars Zimoch (2003). Chitin metabolism in insects: structure, function and regulation of chitin synthases and chitinases. Journal of Experimental Biology, 206(24), 4393-4412. https://doi.org/10.1242/jeb.00709

Chitin metabolism in insects: structure, function and regulation of chitin synthases and chitinases

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