Heat-shock promoter sequences drive expression of Dwil\GK18382 cDNA sequences arranged in an inverted hairpin loop.
Heat-shock induced expression of Dwil\GK18382hs.dsRNA results in defects in eggshell formation. The dorsal ridge is disrupted in 85% of eggshells. In 51%, the dorsal ridge is completely absent. In 34% of Dwil\GK18382hs.dsRNA eggshells, a few constricted cells near the base of the dorsal appendages are found and there is a reduced secretion of chorion material. A wild-type appearance is observed in 15% of eggshells. In most cases, the dorsal appendages of Dwil\GK18382hs.dsRNA D. willistoni flies are still present.
Flies expressing Dwil\GK18382hs.dsRNA that are kept at 18[o]C exhibit mostly wild-type eggshells (98%).