UGA codon context which spans three codons. Reversal by ms2i6A37 in tRNA, mutation in rpsD(S4) or streptomycin

Mutant UGA codon contexts which previously have been identified at different positions in the lacI part of a fused lacIlacZ gene were characterized with respect to translational readthrough in another genetic surrounding at a constant location. Although readthrough levels are systematically higher in this new location the "tight/leaky" characteristics of these codon contexts are essentially fully determined by the two codons flanking the nonsense codon itself. Analysis of some UGA hybrid contexts shows that the contribution to the codon context character by the codon either at the 5'-side (CCA or AGC) or at the 3'-side (NGU) is independent of the nature of the codon at the other side of UGA if this codon is decoded by trpT(Su9) suppressor tRNA. In a trpT(Su9), miaA double mutant strain, which lacks the ms2i6A37 modification in this tRNA, suppression is decreased at all UGA contexts investigated. However, in one case the contribution to the codon context character by the determinant flanking at one side is negatively affected by the nature of the codon at the other side of UGA. Thus, the character of a nonsense codon context in this case results from both flanking codons acting in a co-operative manner with the tRNA reading the middle UGA codon. This negative context effect is counteracted by a rpsD12 (ribosomal protein S4) mutation or by a sublethal concentration of streptomycin in the growth medium. It is suggested that the ms2i6A37 base in trpT(Su9) suppressor tRNA increases the efficiency of this tRNA by protecting it from ribosomal proofreading which is induced by codon context.