Microsomal biphenyl hydroxylase of fall armyworm larvae and its induction by allelochemicals and host plants.

Biphenyl was hydroxylated to 4-hydroxybiphenyl by a mixed-function oxidase system from midgut microsomes of fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) larvae. Optimum conditions for assaying the enzyme were established. The microsomal biphenyl 4-hydroxylase activity increased during larval development and declined in the prepupa. Allelochemicals (monoterpenes, indoles and flavones), drugs (phenobarbital and 3-methylcholanthrene) and host plants were found to induce the hydroxylase. The enzyme was also found to be fairly active in other species such as velvetbean caterpillars, corn earworms, tobacco budworms, mole crickets, American cockroaches and honey bees.