Transcription of tRNA genes in vivo: single-stranded compared to double-stranded templates.

Abstract
The expression of cloned eukaryotic tRNA genes was studied by injecting single-stranded and double-stranded DNA templates into Xenopus oocyte nuclei. In both forms the genes are faithfully transcribed after injection. Some single-stranded DNA is converted into double-stranded DNA in the oocyte nucleus. This conversion is necessary for the expression of the injected tRNA gene: on tRNA transcription is observed when DNA synthesis is inhibited. Single-stranded DNA apparently does not serve as a template for faithful transcription of this gene in injected oocytes.