Dynamic contact network between ribosomal subunits enables rapid large-scale rotation during spontaneous translocation.

ABSTRACT: During ribosomal translation, the two ribosomal subunits remain associated through intersubunit bridges, despite rapid large-scale intersubunit rotation. The absence of large barriers hindering rotation is a prerequisite for rapid rotation. Here, we investigate how such a flat free-energy landscape is achieved, in particular considering the large shifts the bridges undergo at the periphery. The dynamics and energetics of the intersubunit contact network are studied using molecular dynamics simulations of the prokaryotic ribosome in intermediate states of spontaneous translocation. Based on observed occupancies of intersubunit contacts, residues were grouped into clusters. In addition to the central contact clusters, peripheral clusters were found to maintain strong steady interactions by c

SUBMITTER: Bock LV 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4538834 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature