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Progenitor-derived ribosomal RNA supports protein synthesis in Drosophila neurons
  • Jade Fee,
  • Mohamed Aboukilila,
  • Mike Cleary
Jade Fee
University of California Merced School of Natural Sciences

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Mohamed Aboukilila
University of California Merced School of Natural Sciences
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Mike Cleary
University of California Merced School of Natural Sciences
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Abstract

Global mRNA translation may differ dramatically between progenitor cells and their differentiated progeny. One way cell type-specific translation is established is through ribosome concentration. In addition to addressing unique metabolic needs, changes in ribosome concentration may influence cell fate. The mechanisms that determine ribosome abundance in progenitors versus differentiated progeny are not fully understood. Here we investigated this process by focusing on ribosomal RNA (rRNA) synthesis in Drosophila neural progenitors and neurons. We found that rRNA synthesis is robust in neural progenitors but is limited in post-mitotic neurons. Newly born neurons inherit rRNA from their progenitor parent and this inherited rRNA is sufficient for protein synthesis in neurons. Our findings support a model in which neuron-specific translation programs are established by rRNA inheritance.
30 Jun 2021Submitted to Natural Sciences
01 Jul 2021Submission Checks Completed
01 Jul 2021Assigned to Editor
02 Jul 2021Reviewer(s) Assigned
Jan 2022Published in Natural Sciences volume 2 issue 1. 10.1002/ntls.20210032