Vitellogenin

Pronunciation: /VIT-el-lo-jen-in/

Category: Physiology

Singular: Vitellogenin

Plural: Vitellogenins

Definition

A precursor protein produced by the fat body of insects and other animals that is stored in yolk spheres and provides nutrients for developing embryos.

Etymology

From Latin 'vitellus', meaning 'yolk', and '-genin', indicating 'producing'.

Example

Vitellogenin levels in the hemolymph are highest during vitellogenesis.

Related Terms

Yolk
Fat body
Oogenesis

Usage Notes

Vitellogenins are large, complex proteins that are rich in lipids, carbohydrates, and proteins.