Seminal Proteins from Male Insects Affect Mated Females' Behavior and Reproduction

Varied and fascinating interactions occur between male and female animals to lead to the production of progeny. Interactions between the sexes continue even after the act of mating – but at the molecular and cellular level instead of between animals - due to seminal fluid molecules that are transferred from males to females during mating. These molecules affect females’ reproductive physiology and behavior, particularly dramatically in insects. By taking advantage of Drosophila genetics, genomics and biochemistry, we are learning how these male molecules interact with female cells and molecules to cause post-mating changes. This talk will present an overview of, and recent results about, this form of chemical communication. The results reveal an interesting interplay between the sexes, involving both a “ballet” in which male and female-molecules synergize in single pathways and a “battle” between the conflicting reproductive strategies of males and females.