Cytodifferentiation of the chick pancreas. 3. The content and synthesis of ribonucleic acid and proteins in developing acinar cells.

Abstract

AbstractThe content and synthesis of ribonucleic acid (RNA) and protein was studied by microphotometry and autoradiography in the developing pancreatic acinar cells of White Leghorn chick embryos. These findings were correlated with previously reported changes in ultrastructural components. Shortly before or concomitant with zymogen granulation, RNA synthesis increased, in association with increases in the amount of nucleolar and cytoplasmic protein. The cytoplasmic fraction was transitory, whereas the accumulated nucleolar protein was maintained and was soon followed by an increase in nucleolar RNA. Concomitantly, a decrease in chromosomal RNA was observed, with the total amount of nuclear RNA staying constant. When zymogen first appeared, nucleoli were greatly enlarged due to large amounts of RNA and protein; total cellular RNA and protein had decreased slightly, in association with a decrease in cell volume. Subsequent development presented smaller nucleoli with decreased amounts of RNA and protein. Total cellular RNA increased due to its accumulation in the cytoplasm, probably as ribosomes. The accumulation of zymogen and the enlargement of other cellular structures contributed to an increase in total cellular protein. Prior to hatching, total cell RNA and protein decreased in amount, probably due to a reduction in cell volume through cell division.