Allatostatin

Definition

Peptides found in insects that inhibit juvenile hormone production and regulate metamorphosis.

Etymology

From the Greek 'allatos', meaning 'other' and 'statin', meaning 'stopping'.

Example

Allatostatin levels increase during the late stages of insect development, leading to the cessation of molting.

Related Terms

• Juvenile hormone
• Metamorphosis
• Neurosecretory cells

Usage Notes

Allatostatins are synthesized in specific neurons and act on the corpus allatum to regulate hormonal signaling.