60S ribosomal protein L35a

60S ribosomal protein L35a is a protein that in humans is encoded by the RPL35A gene. This protein is a component of the 60S ribosomal subunit which operates within the ribosome, the cellular machinery responsible for protein synthesis. The 60S subunit, along with the 40S ribosomal subunit, plays a critical role in the process of translation, where messenger RNA (mRNA) is decoded to produce polypeptides and proteins.

Function

The 60S ribosomal protein L35a is integral to the function of the ribosome. It participates in the assembly and structural stability of the 60S subunit. Proteins like L35a are essential for the ribosome's ability to synthesize proteins accurately and efficiently. The ribosome functions by reading the sequence of the mRNA and, with the help of transfer RNA (tRNA), adding the corresponding amino acids to the growing polypeptide chain. The role of the 60S subunit, where L35a is located, is particularly crucial during the elongation phase of translation, where it forms the peptidyl transferase center that catalyzes peptide bond formation.

Gene

The RPL35A gene is located on chromosome 3 in humans. It encodes the 60S ribosomal protein L35a, contributing to the complex composition of the ribosome. The regulation of this gene, like many involved in protein synthesis, is tightly controlled to meet the cell's demands for protein production, which can vary depending on the cell type, developmental stage, and external stimuli.

Clinical Significance

Alterations in the RPL35A gene have been associated with various human diseases. Mutations or dysregulation of ribosomal proteins, including L35a, can lead to disorders known as ribosomopathies. These conditions are characterized by defects in ribosome function and assembly, leading to widespread cellular dysfunction. Specific to L35a, changes in its expression or function have been studied in the context of cancer. As ribosomes are essential for protein synthesis, their components, including L35a, are often found to be overexpressed in various types of cancer, where they may contribute to the uncontrolled growth and proliferation of cancer cells.

Evolution

The ribosomal proteins, including 60S ribosomal protein L35a, are highly conserved across different species, highlighting their fundamental role in cellular biology. The conservation of these proteins across eukaryotes underscores the evolutionary importance of efficient and accurate protein synthesis mechanisms.

See Also

• Ribosome
• Protein synthesis
• Ribosomopathy
• Chromosome 3 (human)