Radioisotope incorporation into ribosomal proteins during the life cycle of Drosophila melanogaster

Abstract

The incorporation of 3H-leucine into ribosomal proteins during the preadult and adult phases of the Drosophila life cycle has been examined. Labeled ribosomes from newly eclosed adults contain proteins that rapidly decline in specific activity as the adult feeds on unlabeled medium. Newly synthesized proteins are incorporated into ribosomes as the young adult feeds. Incorporation during adulthood varies linearly with the concentration of radioisotope administered. The efficiency of this incorporation is greater in adult females than in adult males and can be greatly enhanced by making the isotope available as the fly drinks. Thus, an efficient means of labeling adult ribosomal proteins has been demonstrated. Further experimentation into the rôle of ribosomal proteins during the development and differentiation of Drosophila is discussed.