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Autoradiographic localization of pre-messenger RNA in the nucleus of the Necturus maculosus oocyte

The precise location of pre-messenger RNA (pre-mRNA) was determined within the cell nucleus of the amphibian N. maculosus (mudpuppy) oocyte. Pre-messenger RNA or heterogeneous nuclear RNA (hnRNA) is directly transcribed from the gene in the cell nucleus (Jelinek et al., 1983). This highly unstable, high molecular weight complex is then processed into messenger RNA (mRNA). Again this transformation is thought to take place in the nucleus.By employing the techniques of in situ hybridization along with light and high resolution autoradiography an effort was made to localize, via a radioactive probe, ( 3H) poly (U), pre-mRNA within the nucleus. Additionally, various inhibitors were employed in this study to analyze changes in the amount and distribution of radioactive material within the cell.Light microscopy observations of autoradiographs reveal a consistent pattern of probe localization over the nucleoli with a broader dispersal across the nuclei. Ultrastructural studies reveal the presence of granules (perichromatin granules) localized over both the nucleolar-associated chromatin and at the border of condensed chromatin. These structures are contained in the cell nucleus and are presumed to function in the transport and storage of mRNA. / Department of Physiology and Health Science

Identiferoai:union.ndltd.org:BSU/oai:cardinalscholar.bsu.edu:handle/183472
Date January 1987
CreatorsRock, Daniel E.
ContributorsBall State University. Dept. of Physiology and Health Science., Ganion, Larry R.
Source SetsBall State University
Detected LanguageEnglish
Formatvii, 57 leaves : ill. ; 28 cm.
SourceVirtual Press

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