Figure 2. Distribution of NEP2 mRNA and protein in adult Malpighian tubules.

(A and B) In situ hybridization was carried out using a digoxygenin-labelled Nep2 anti-sense riboprobe. (C and D) Immunocytochemistry was performed using a Vectastain® ABC Kit and NEP2 antibodies. High levels of NEP2 mRNA and protein were detected in the stellate cells and the related bar-shaped cells, but not the principal cells of the Malpighian tubules. Control experiments performed with either a sense-strand riboprobe or non-immune IgG gave no specific staining of the Malpighian tubules (results not shown).