title: Dissociation of polysome aggregates by protease k.
abstract: Apparent large size-classes of zein-synthesizing polysomes from developing kernels of Zea mays L. were converted to smaller polysomes after treatment with Protease K. The reduction in polysome size was not a result of ribonuclease activity, inasmuch as the enzyme did not affect the free polysomes or the size of the mRNA from the membrane-bound polysomes. High concentrations of MgCl(2) in polysome buffer inhibited ribonuclease activity and appeared to cause protein interaction between nascent zein polypeptides. Although Protease K inhibited the polysome's capacity for protein synthesis, it was a useful reagent for determining if polysomes were aggregated by protein.
authors: Department of Botany and Plant Pathology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907.
authors: B A
authors: BA
authors: Larkins
authors: C Y
authors: CY
authors: Tsai