Comparison between aminopeptidase and trypsin activity in blood-fed females of Aedes aegypti

Female mosquitoes show a low level of aminopeptidase activity throughout adult life. After a blood meal however it rises by a factor of six within 24 hours, reaching the maximum together with tryptic activity. After the digestion period the residual level in the midgut is restored. Over 50% of the total enzyme activity is localized in the ectoperitrophic space, i.e. between midgut epithelium and the peritrophic membrane, whereas about 40% is detected within the epithelial cells. The rest of only 10% is found within the blood bolus. Consequently, between the midgut epithelium and the peritrophic membrane a compartment is established for optimal digestion.