Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 17, 2026

Toeprinting Analysis of Translation Initiation Complex Formation on Mammalian mRNAs
Published on: May 10, 2018
A finger protein structurally similar to TFIIIA that binds exclusively to 5S RNA in Xenopus
K E Joho1, M K Darby, E T Crawford
1Department of Embryology, Carnegie Institution of Washington, Baltimore, Maryland 21210.
Abstract:
A 5S RNA binding protein (p43) in Xenopus is a major constituent of oocytes and comprises part of a 42S ribonucleoprotein storage particle. We have cloned and sequenced p43 cDNA from X. laevis and X. borealis as well as the cDNA for X. borealis TFIIIA. Like TFIIIA, p43 has nine zinc fingers, seven of which are exactly the same size as their counterparts in TFIIIA. Amino acid homology between the two proteins is restricted mainly to conserved residues characteristic of zinc fingers. In contrast to TFIIIA, which binds specifically to both 5S RNA and 5S RNA genes, p43 binds exclusively to 5S RNA.
Related Concept Videos
RNA Structure
The basic structure of RNA consists of a five-carbon sugar and one of four nitrogenous bases. Although most RNA is single-stranded, it can form complex secondary and tertiary structures. Such structures play essential roles in the regulation of transcription and translation.
Different Types of RNA Have the Same Basic Structure
There are three main types of ribonucleic acid (RNA): messenger RNA (mRNA), transfer RNA (tRNA), and ribosomal RNA (rRNA). All three RNA types consist of a...
RNA Polymerase II Accessory Proteins
Riboswitches
The aptamer has high specificity for a particular metabolite which allows riboswitches to specifically regulate...
RNA Structure
Different Types of RNA Have the Same Basic Structure
There are three main types of ribonucleic acid (RNA) involved in protein synthesis: messenger RNA (mRNA), transfer RNA (tRNA), and ribosomal RNA (rRNA). All three...
General Transcription Factors
RNA Polymerase II Accessory Proteins

