Effect of gonadectomy on the secretory activity of the cerebral glands in Lithobius forficatus L. (Myriapoda Chilopoda).

Castrated Lithobius forficatus L. showed increased activity of the cerebral glands which are cephalic neurohemal organs exerting a role in spermatocyte and oocyte growth. This glandular hyperactivity is characterized by higher activity of the Golgi apparatus. The reaction, although comparable in both sexes, is apparently more pronounced after ovariectomy. About 50 days after castration glandular cells showed signs of injury while their activity remained similar or somewhat lower in comparison with controls. It is suggested that the glandular hyperactivity arises from the cessation of negative feedback signals from the gonads. The genital glands could act either directly or indirectly via the brain.