Meiosis in Ornithogalum virens (Liliaceae)

III. Pattern of RNA synthesis during meiotic prophase

Abstract

The pattern of RNA synthesis during meiotic prophase has been investigated in Ornithogalum virens. The rate of RNA synthesis fluctuates depending on the stage of meiosis. Nucleolar RNA synthesis continues at a low level throughout meiotic prophase. Evidence is presented which indicates that a greater percentage of the newly synthesized RNA is being transported to the cytoplasm in pre-pachy-tene stages as compared to cells in pachytene or diplotene of meiosis.
The effects of actinomycin D on the morphology of the meiotic cells are also described.