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A germ line specific DNA sequence is transcribed in Tetrahymena
Developmental Biology
|March 1, 1987
Summary
Germline-specific DNA sequences in Tetrahymena are transcribed into RNA, particularly in starved and stationary cells. This indicates transcription occurs in the micronucleus, even for germline-limited DNA.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
- Protozoology
Background:
- Tetrahymena possess micronucleus-specific DNA sequences, comprising 10-20% of their genome.
- These germline-limited DNA sequences are of interest for understanding gene regulation and genome organization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the transcription of germline-limited DNA sequences in Tetrahymena.
- To determine the conditions under which these specific DNA sequences are expressed.
Main Methods:
- Identification of mic-specific DNA sequences.
- Analysis of poly(A)+ RNA using Northern blotting or similar techniques.
- Comparison of transcript levels across different cellular states (starved, immature, stationary, log-phase, heat-shocked).
Main Results:
- Six members of a repeated mic-specific DNA family showed homology to a 1.5-kb poly(A)+ RNA transcript.
- The transcript was detected in mature starved cells (10 or 60 mM Tris), starved immature cells, and stationary cells.
- The transcript was not detectable in log-phase or heat-shocked cells.
Conclusions:
- At least one germline-limited DNA sequence in Tetrahymena is transcribed within the micronucleus.
- The transcription of this germline-limited DNA is regulated by cellular conditions, being present in starved and stationary states but absent during active growth or heat shock.