Methoprene-tolerant protein (Met) (Met)

The Methoprene-tolerant protein (Met) is the primary receptor for juvenile hormone (JH), a critical sesquiterpenoid that orchestrates insect metamorphosis, molting, and reproduction (Jindra et al., 2013, Annual Review of Entomology). As a member of the basic helix-loop-helix-Per-Arnt-Sim (bHLH-PAS) family of transcription factors, Met binds JH with high affinity and subsequently forms a heterodimer with the co-activator protein Taiman (Tai) (Charles et al., 2011, PNAS). This transcriptional complex binds to JH-response elements in the promoter regions of target genes, most notably Krüppel-homolog 1 (Kr-h1), which acts to repress the genes required for metamorphosis (Miyakawa et al., 2013, Vitam Horm). By maintaining the insect in a juvenile state, Met signaling prevents premature transition to the pupal or adult stages. Because JH signaling is unique to arthropods and absent in vertebrates, Met is a premier target for biorational insecticides known as juvenile hormone analogs (JHAs) (Bitra and Palli, 2009, Journal of Biological Chemistry). These compounds, such as methoprene and pyriproxyfen, act as potent agonists that disrupt the endocrine balance of pests, leading to developmental failure, sterility, or death, making them essential for controlling agricultural pests and disease vectors like mosquitoes.

Other names

Juvenile hormone receptorJH receptorbHLH-PAS transcription factor MetMethoprene-tolerant

Agonism of the juvenile hormone receptor to mimic natural hormone signaling, thereby disrupting metamorphosis and reproductive cycles in insects.