The neuroendocrine regulation of salt and water balance in insects

This review provides an overview of excretion in insects and a brief descri ption of the major transport processes in Malpighian tubules and hindgut. T he structures and cellular actions of CRF-related DP, insect kinins, M. sex ta CAP(2b) and a calcitonin-like peptide are described, emphasising where p ossible their different effects in blood-sucking and herbivorous insects. T he actions of an identified antidiuretic peptide (S. gregaria ion transport peptide) are also described and consideration is given to the integrated c ontrol of Malpighian tubule secretion and hindgut reabsorption. Gaps in our knowledge are identified and future developments are considered with parti cular reference to how the completed Drosophila genome project might assist the study of insect endocrinology.