Induction of microsomal enzymes in the southern armyworm (Prodenia eridania)

Levels of microsomal epoxidation, N-demethylation, and cytochrome P-450 in the gut tissues of sixth instar southern armyworm larvae were considerably enhanced following oral in vivo treatment with a series of methylbenzenes. Induction increased with increasing methyl substitution and was maximal with pentamethylbenzene. The increase in microsomal activity occurred rapidly after initiation of treatment and the final levels of induction achieved were dependent on the concentration of the inducer in the diet and the time of exposure. Microsomal enzyme activity returned to control levels following termination of exposure and induction was blocked by puromycin and cycloheximide but not by actinomycin D. The in vivo tolerance of induced worms to orally administered carbaryl was increased in a manner reflecting the enhanced microsomal enzyme activity.