Biosynthesis of DNA, RNA and proteins by mouse embryos cultured in the presence of a teratogenic dose of chlorambucil

Abstract

The effect of chlorambucil on the rates of DNA, RNA, and protein synthesis in mouse embryos was investigated using a system of whole embryo culture. Embryos were isolated on the 11th day of gestation (33 +/- 3 somites) and grown in culture media for periods of 4-8 h. Reichert's membrane and most of the placental tissue was removed leaving only the amnion and visceral yolk-sac surrounding the embryo. In the presence of teratogenic doses of chlorabucil (15 mug/ml) the rate of DNA synthesis was significantly decreased at 4 and 8 h. RNA and protein synthesis were not inhibited at either of these times. A trend toward decreasing rates of protein synthesis at some time beyond 8 h was noted, but not tested.