A model of the translational apparatus based on a three-dimensional reconstruction of the Escherichia coli ribosome.
The morphology of the Escherichia coli ribosome, i.e., its shape at moderate to low (20-40 A (1 A = 0.1 nm)) resolution, provides important constraints in modeling both the folding of ribosomal RNA and the translational process. A new reconstruction, obtained by low-dose cryoelectron microscopy and image processing of single ribosomes, contains clues to the way in which the ribosome interacts with the key functional ligands: the mRNA and the A- and P-site tRNAs. It also suggests possible pathways of the nascent polypeptide chain. From an interpretation of these clues in the light of existing knowledge, a plausible model for the locations and interactions of key components of protein synthesis is suggested.
Frank
J
J
Wadsworth Center, New York State, Department of Health, NY 12201-0509, USA.
Verschoor
A
A
Li
Y
Y
Zhu
J
J
Lata
R K
RK
Radermacher
M
M
Penczek
P
P
Grassucci
R
R
Agrawal
R K
RK
Srivastava
S
S
D004926:Escherichia coli / Q000235:genetics / Q000648:ultrastructure*; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; D008854:Microscopy, Electron; D008957:Models, Genetic; D014176:Protein Biosynthesis; D012329:RNA, Bacterial / Q000235:genetics; D012270:Ribosomes / Q000648:ultrastructure*
D012329:RNA, Bacterial