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tRNA/mRNA Mimicry by tmRNA and SmpB in Trans-Translation
Daisuke Kurita1, Akira Muto, Hyouta Himeno
1Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Agriculture and Life Science, Hirosaki University, Hirosaki 036-8561, Japan.
Abstract:
Since accurate translation from mRNA to protein is critical to survival, cells have developed translational quality control systems. Bacterial ribosomes stalled on truncated mRNA are rescued by a system involving tmRNA and SmpB referred to as trans-translation. Here, we review current understanding of the mechanism of trans-translation. Based on results obtained by using directed hydroxyl radical probing, we propose a new type of molecular mimicry during trans-translation. Besides such chemical approaches, biochemical and cryo-EM studies have revealed the structural and functional aspects of multiple stages of trans-translation. These intensive works provide a basis for studying the dynamics of tmRNA/SmpB in the ribosome.
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