What is vitellogenin?

Vitellogenin is an important storage protein produced in the ovaries of female insects, including honeybees. It serves as a precursor to egg yolk proteins and plays a crucial role in the development of oocytes (egg cells). In honeybees, vitellogenin is particularly significant because it influences not only reproduction but also impacts the behavior and longevity of bees. High levels of vitellogenin in worker bees are associated with enhanced lifespan and foraging behavior, contributing to the overall health and success of the hive.

This understanding of vitellogenin underscores its vital role in bee biology, making it an essential factor in the life cycle and functioning of bee colonies.