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1w26
From Proteopedia
TRIGGER FACTOR IN COMPLEX WITH THE RIBOSOME FORMS A MOLECULAR CRADLE FOR NASCENT PROTEINS
Overview
During protein biosynthesis, nascent polypeptide chains that emerge from the ribosomal exit tunnel encounter ribosome-associated chaperones, which assist their folding to the native state. Here we present a 2.7 A crystal structure of Escherichia coli trigger factor, the best-characterized chaperone of this type, together with the structure of its ribosome-binding domain in complex with the Haloarcula marismortui large ribosomal subunit. Trigger factor adopts a unique conformation resembling a crouching dragon with separated domains forming the amino-terminal ribosome-binding 'tail', the peptidyl-prolyl isomerase 'head', the carboxy-terminal 'arms' and connecting regions building up the 'back'. From its attachment point on the ribosome, trigger factor projects the extended domains over the exit of the ribosomal tunnel, creating a protected folding space where nascent polypeptides may be shielded from proteases and aggregation. This study sheds new light on our understanding of co-translational protein folding, and suggests an unexpected mechanism of action for ribosome-associated chaperones.
About this Structure
1W26 is a Single protein structure of sequence from Escherichia coli. Full crystallographic information is available from OCA.
Reference
Trigger factor in complex with the ribosome forms a molecular cradle for nascent proteins., Ferbitz L, Maier T, Patzelt H, Bukau B, Deuerling E, Ban N, Nature. 2004 Sep 30;431(7008):590-6. Epub 2004 Aug 29. PMID:15334087 Page seeded by OCA on Sat May 3 13:03:01 2008
