Mitochondrial RNA synthesis during meiotic divisions in Locust male germ cells

Abstract

The relative amount of RNA synthesis in nuclei and in mitochondria during spermatogenesis (from the first meiotic division to spermatids) in Locusta migratoria have been investigated by electron microscope autoradiography. Nuclear RNA synthesis declines during meiotic prophase and metaanaphase, resumes in telophase and at the beginning of spermiogenesis, and falls again during later stages. Labelling of the cytoplasmic background follows roughly that of the nucleus. In contrast, mitochondrial RNA synthesis continues at a steady level during the first prophase and meta-anaphase, increases at telophase and declines during spermiogenesis. We infer from these results that an autonomous mitochondrial RNA synthesis occurs during meiotic divisions.