Polysome Preparation, RNA Isolation and Analysis

Abstract

During mRNA translation, 40S and 60S ribosomal subunits bind to target mRNA forming into an 80S complex (monosome). This ribosome moves along the mRNA during translational elongation to facilitate tRNA reading codon, where translation is activated and many monosomes can bind the same mRNA simutaneously, which forms polysomes. Polysomes can be size-fractionated by sucrose density gradient centrifugation. The more specific mRNA in polysomes implies more active translational status of the mRNA.