The timing of RNA synthesis for spermiogenesis in organ cultures of Drosophila melanogaster testes

Abstract

A method for the organ culture of Drosophila testes is described which supports the differentiation of primary spermatocytes through the meiotic divisions to elongating spermatids. Autoradiographic and inhibitor studies reveal no evidence for RNA synthesis by developing spermatids of Drosophila melanogaster; most, if not all, of the RNA required for the differentiation and elongation of sperm is synthesized earlier in the primary spermatocytes. Primary spermatocytes will differentiate into elongating spermatids in organ culture, despite severe (96-98%) inhibition of3H-uridine incorporation into RNA effected by 50 μg/ml 3′-deoxyadenosine. Protein synthesis in spermatids continues to be active in the presence of 3′-deoxyadenosine, but that in growing spermatocytes is severely inhibited. © 1974 Springer-Verlag.