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Developmentally regulated, low abundance Tec element transcripts in Euplotes crassus--implications for DNA
J W Jaraczewski1, J S Frels, C L Jahn
1Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Northwestern University Medical School, Chicago, IL 60611.
Nucleic Acids Research
|October 25, 1994
Summary
During Euplotes crassus development, Tec elements are eliminated from the genome. Low transcript levels suggest element-encoded functions are not involved in this precise excision process.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
- Protozoology
Background:
- Euplotes crassus undergoes precise elimination of over 105 Tec elements during macromolecular development.
- Extrachromosomal circular forms are generated from these eliminated Tec elements.
- Transposition-based mechanisms have been hypothesized for Tec element excision.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of Tec element open reading frames (ORFs) in the excision process.
- To determine the abundance and timing of Tec element transcripts.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of Tec element transcript abundance using PCR amplification.
- Detection of transcripts in RNA samples from different developmental stages, specifically mated cells.
Main Results:
- Tec element transcripts are found at very low abundance, detectable only by PCR.
- Transcripts are exclusively detected in RNA from mated cells.
- This indicates transcriptional activity in the micronucleus and/or developing macronucleus during the sexual phase.
Conclusions:
- The low transcript levels argue against a significant role for element-encoded functions in Tec element elimination.
- The observed transcription may facilitate a low level of germline-specific transposition for Tec elements.