Visualization of ribosome-single-stranded DNA complexes in the electron microscope

Abstract

A procedure is described which allows [Escherichia coli] ribosomes bound to single-stranded DNA to be visualized by EM. The number of bound ribosomes may be determined, and the position of the bound ribosomes may be readily measured along the DNA. The distribution of ribosomes bound to separated l and r strands of [phage] .lambda. DNA conformed to the pattern predicted for binding at specific sites. The procedure should allow mapping of ribosome binding sites for the determination of genetic maps and may also be useful for studying translational control and relative binding affinities for ribosomes. [DNA from phages .vphi.X174 and T7 were also used.].