A Drosophila male accessory gland protein that is a member of the serpin superfamily of proteinase inhibitors is transferred to females during mating

Abstract

Accessory gland peptide 76A, (Acp76A), belongs to the serpin superfamily of proteins (serine protease inhibitors). Acp76A is a secreted protein synthesized only in the Drosophila melanogaster adult male accessory gland. Accumulation of the protein in males is first detected with polyclonal antibodies at 1 day after eclosion. The level of the protein in virgin males reaches a peak 5-8 days post-eclosion, and remains constant for at least 20 days. Upon mating the amount of Acp76A in males drops dramatically, but recovers by 24 h after mating. Immediately after mating the Acp76A is found in the female uterus. By 6 h after mating the amount of Acp76A detected in females is drastically reduced.