A follicle cell contribution to the yolk spheres of moth oocytes.

The incorporation of H(3)-histidine and H(3)-glucosamine by ovarian follicles of cecropia moths during incubation in female blood was followed autoradicgraphically. Labeling was most prominent in the follicle cells, the spaces between these cells, and the nascent yolk spheres in the oocyte cortex. Results of pulse-chase experiments and the fact that viable follicle cells were required for normal yolk sphere labeling indicated that the endogenous component of the yolk was provided by the follicle cells via the intercellular spaces. The material was accumulated by the oocyte in the absence of blood proteins, suggesting an independent role in yolk formation.