Identification of binding sites on the E. coli ribosome by affinity labeling

Both electrophilic and photolabile derivatives of several different types of ribosomal ligands have been used in affinity labeling studies on the Escherichia coli ribosome. These studies have resulted in the localization of the peptidyl transferase center within a region of the 50S subunit, and the localization of the mRNA binding site within one of two regions on the 30S particle. In addition, labeling data have been obtained for GTP and streptomycin affinity labels. The affinity labeling results are discussed along with the results of other studies, and procedures are suggested for improving the resolving power of the affinity labeling technique as applied to ribosomes.