Chapter 1 On “Masked” Forms of Messenger Rna in Early Embryogenesis and in Other Differentiating Systems
1966; Elsevier BV; Linguagem: Inglês
10.1016/s0070-2153(08)60007-1
ISSN1557-8933
Autores Tópico(s)Bacterial Genetics and Biotechnology
ResumoThis chapter discusses the possible forms, in which the messenger RNA (mRNA) may exist in an inactive state and their relation to the processes of early embryogenesis, differentiation, and development. The term “masked mRNA” is used to designate a form of mRNA, in which it does not manifest its protein-synthesizing activity, regardless of whether this inactive state precedes the active state or is a result of “repression” of a formerly active template. The discovery of the mRNA and the formulation of certain principles of the regulation of gene activity in bacterial and viral systems opened up extensive opportunities for the speculations concerning the mechanisms of cellular differentiation and development in the metazoa. There is indirect evidence of the presence in unfertilized eggs of a “masked” mRNA that is stored in a temporarily inactive, protected form; expression (“unmasking”) of this mRNA takes place after fertilization. The presence of “masked mRNA” in other embryonic systems may be inferred from various experimental evidences. It is suggested that the “unmasking” of the stored mRNA plays a role not only in early embryogenesis but also in later development, where it may precede the appearance of new proteins and transition to a new phase of differentiation.
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