Evidence of hormonal control of the nucleolar activity in Sciara ocellaris

The nucleolus organizing region in the salivary gland of Sciara ocellaris becomes gradually less active as the larvae approach pupation. The cytological visible condensation of the nucleolar puff is paralleled by a decrease in the incorporation of [ 3H]-uridine into the ribosomal RNA. Alterations in the nucleolar behavior were brought about by extirpation of the neuroendocrine glands at six stages of development. There is a ‘critical stage’ during the 7th day of the 4th instar when the hormonal stimulus for pupation occurs. If the ligature is performed before this stage the NOR remains expanded and the larval-pupal oedysis is inhibited; if done later on the NOR condenses at a normal rate and the ligated larvae amount to head-less pupae. These results suggest that inhibition of rRNA synthesis and consequent condensation of the NOR is under the control of the moulting hormone.