Abstract
Elongation factor G (EF-G) is a GTPase that is involved in the translocation of bacterial ribosomes along messenger RNA during protein biosynthesis. In contrast to current models, EF-G-dependent GTP hydrolysis is shown to precede, and greatly accelerate, the rearrangement of the ribosome that leads to translocation. Domain IV of the EF-G structure is crucial for both rapid translocation and subsequent release of the factor from the ribosome. By coupling the free energy of GTP hydrolysis to translocation, EF-G serves as a motor protein to drive the directional movement of transfer and messenger RNAs on the ribosome.
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Rodnina, M., Savelsbergh, A., Katunin, V. et al. Hydrolysis of GTP by elongation factor G drives tRNA movement on the ribosome. Nature 385, 37–41 (1997). https://doi.org/10.1038/385037a0
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/385037a0
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