The prothoracic glands are either of a pair of endocrine glands located in the prothorax of certain insects that regulate molting. They have an ectodermal origin and secrete ecdysteroids, such as ecdysone and 20-hydroxyecdysone.[1] They usually disappear in adults.[2]
- ^ Gilbert, L. I.; Song, Q.; Rybczynski, R. (1997-09-01). "Control of ecdysteroidogenesis: activation and inhibition of prothoracic gland activity". Invertebrate Neuroscience. 3 (2–3): 205–216. doi:10.1007/BF02480376. ISSN 1354-2516. PMID 9783446. S2CID 2746340.
- ^ Klowden, M. Physiological Systems in Insects Endocrine Systems.