Changes in DNA, RNA, and Protein Synthesis in the Developing Lens

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Abstract

Lens cell DNA, RNA, and protein synthesis in the developing mouse eye xoere studied with the use of tritium-labeled thymidine, uridine, and l-leucine and autoradiographic techniques. In the mouse embnjonic lens, epithelial cells undergoing DNA synthesis were found over the entire anterior lens surface. From birth and until the eyes opened the percentage of epithelial cells undergoing DNA synthesis rapidly decreased. Later the percentage of epithelial cells undergoing DNA synthesis toas nearly constant as the germinative zone became localized in the lens equator region. RNA synthesis occurred in all nucleated cells of the developing lens from the embryonic stage until the eyelids opened. With lens maturity the ³H uridine was incorporated into the RNA of only the more superficial cells. A similar pattern of tritium incorporation was seen with ³H l-leucine.