Regulation of gene expression in prediapausing embryos of the silkworm, Bombyx mori: pattern of protein synthesis

Specific qualitative and quantitative changes in protein synthesis occur from the fertilization to the onset of diapause in the silkworm. We have used two-dimensional gel electrophoresis to analyse the patterns of proteins synthesized in prediapausing eggs of Bombyx. This analysis has been carried out with in vivo labelled polypeptides and with proteins synthesized in vitro by RNA isolated at different stages. The oocyte contains an abundant supply of diverse mRNA which are translatable in vitro. A set of proteins with molecular weight range of 68000 to 74000 and isoelectric points of 5.85–5.95 (hereafter referred to as No. 30) is specific of the germ-anlage stage. Transcripts encoding the No. 30 proteins are not detectable in oocytes, and inhibition of transcription by actinomycin D indicates that No. 30 mRNA are synthesized de novo. Treating eggs at the germ-anlage stage with 4 N HCl at 46°C prevents diapause and is accompanied by overproduction of No. 30 protein. The induction of No. 30 synthesis is also the main event of the heat shock response. The implications of these findings in relation to early embryonic development and prevention of diapause are discussed.