Ribosomal Ribonucleic Acid Synthesis and Maturation in the Blue-Green Alga Anacystis nidulans

Abstract

Methods are described for preparation of pulse-labeled ribonucleic acid (RNA) from the blue-green alga Anacystis nidulans . Synthesis of labeled RNA was found to be in part dependent on concurrent photosynthesis and was inhibited by the antibiotic streptolydigin. Mature 23 S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) appeared before mature 16 S rRNA. Formation of either molecule was inhibited by chloramphenicol, and RNA species of lesser mobility accumulated. These species may be precursors of the mature forms. Maturation of 16 S rRNA was also inhibited by streptolydigin. (The effect of this antibiotic on 23 S rRNA maturation was not examined). In many respects, ribosomal RNA synthesis and maturation in this blue-green alga appear to follow the pattern already established for bacteria.