[Analysis of protein nutrient reserves of the clitellum and cocoon albumin in Eisenia fetida Sav (Annelida Oligochaeta). Demonstration of a glycolipoprotein comparable to vitellogenin].

In the clitella of Eisenia fetida, the amount of total proteins decreased dramatically during puberty. In contrast, the level of soluble proteins increased during the same period. In the cocoons, the increase of total proteins and soluble proteins corresponded to the development of the embryos. Among the soluble proteins of the mature clitellum, 3 major proteins (A, B and C) were separated by electrophoresis: A, glycolipoproteinic (molecular weight = 450 kDa), B, glycoproteic (MW = 350 kDa) and C, also glycoproteinic (MW = 150 kDa). Only A was present in the cocoons during all the stages of development. Although this protein is not incorporated in the oocyte, it has the same characteristics as a typical vitellogenin. After denaturation of the soluble proteins, 4 polypeptides were obtained. Two of them, a and c, are involved in the making of this 'vitellogenin'.