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Segregation during cleavage of a factor determining endodermal alkaline phosphatase development in ascidian embryos
The Journal of Experimental Zoology
|November 1, 1977
Summary
Alkaline phosphatase activity in Ciona intestinalis embryos is localized to endodermal tissues. This enzyme
Area of Science:
- Developmental Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Alkaline phosphatase (EC 3.1.3.1) activity is crucial for various biological processes.
- Its precise developmental regulation in ascidians like Ciona intestinalis is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the developmental timing and molecular basis of alkaline phosphatase localization in Ciona intestinalis endoderm.
Main Methods:
- Histochemical detection of alkaline phosphatase activity.
- Inhibition studies using puromycin, cytochalasin B, and RNA synthesis inhibitors (Actinomycin D, chromomycin A3, cordycepin, daunomycin).
Main Results:
- Localized alkaline phosphatase activity was observed in endodermal tissues starting from late gastrulation.
- Puromycin sensitivity indicated de novo synthesis of the enzyme.
- Cytochalasin B-induced cell cycle arrest did not prevent enzyme development in endodermal precursors.
- Inhibition of RNA synthesis did not affect alkaline phosphatase development.
Conclusions:
- A pre-existing maternal mRNA for alkaline phosphatase is likely present in the Ciona egg.
- This mRNA or a related translation factor is localized and segregated into the endodermal lineage during early development.