Synthesis of fibroin in the cultured glands of Nephila clavipes

Abstract

1. 1. Synthesis of fibroin has been elicited in the cultured large ampullate glands of the spider Nephila clavipes. 2. 2. A dramatic wave of protein synthesis ensues 60 min after stimulation, preceded by a wave of RNA synthesis. 3. 3. The glands in culture synthesize the full-size protein product. 4. 4. Both stimulus-elicited responses are expressed exclusively by the gland tissue. 5. 5. In addition to the luminar product, the secretory epithelium contains an array of lower molecular size peptides bearing a striking resemblance to those reported as products of translational pauses during the synthesis of silk in Bombyx mori.