WCC 25 |
| Translation of the genetic code is mediated by the adaptor tRNA substrates and protein factors interacting with two distinct active sites in the RNA-rich functional centers of the ribosome. We are using mutant analysis coupled with pre-steady state kinetic approaches to decipher the molecular details of ribosome function in these active sites. Previous mutational analysis of the role of nucleotides in the large subunit catalytic center indicated that the universally conserved residues found there were most important for the role that they play in peptide release (and not in peptidyl transfer). Current studies are focused on the protein class I release factors (RF1 and RF2) and (1) how they interact with the large subunit active site to trigger the hydrolytic reaction of peptide release and (2) how their interactions with the decoding center of the small subunit are critical to this function. |
|
From Peptide Bond Formation to Functional Proteins: Symposium in Honor of Ada Yonath
8:15 AM-11:10 AM, Tuesday, August 21, 2007 Sheraton Boston -- Back Bay Blrm B, Oral
Women Chemists Committee |