Description
Current methods to analyze gene expression measure steady-state levels of mRNA. In order to specifically analyze mRNA transcription, a technique has been developed that can be applied in-vivo. The technique is referred with the acronym NIAC-NTR (Non Invasive Application and Capture of Newly Transcribed RNA). This method makes use of the cellular pyrimidine salvage pathway and is based on affinity-chromatographic isolation of thiolated mRNA. When combined with data on mRNA steady-state levels, this method is able to assess the relative contributions of mRNA synthesis and degradation/stabilization. It overcomes limitations associated with currently available methods such as mechanistic intervention that disrupts cellular physiology, or the inability to apply the techniques in-vivo. The method has been applied to a model of serum response of cultured primary mouse embryonic fibroblasts.