DNA replication by a possible continuous-discontinuous mechanism in homogenates of Physarum polycephalum containing dextran.

Nuclear DNA synthesis in homogenates of Physarum is greatly stimulated by the presence of dextran in the homogenizing medium. In this cell-free system, the DNA precursor is incorporated approximately equally into two classes of DNA intermediates. On of these is similar in size to that observed previously in the intact organism, i.e. its sedimentation rate in alkaline sucrose density gradients increases, presumably by chain elongation, as the organism progresses through the S phase. The other class (approx. 10 S) is similar to 'Okazaki' fragments. Thus, nuclear DNA synthesis in homogenates of Physarum may occur by a continuous-discontinuous mechanism. Substantial DNA-synthetic activity is obtained by the addition of dextran to dextran-free homogenates. Maximal activity in this system requires the presence of both the nuclear and post-nuclear supernatant fractions. It is possible that a partial separation and recombination of a DNA polymerase and the endogenous template is effected by this procedure.