Mitochondrial Ribosomal Protein L28 (MRPL28) is a protein encoded by the MRPL28 gene in humans. This protein is a component of the mitochondrial ribosome, specifically the large 39S subunit . Mitochondrial ribosomes, also known as mitoribosomes, are essential for protein synthesis within the mitochondria, the powerhouse of the cell .
Mitoribosomes are distinct from their prokaryotic counterparts in several ways. They consist of a small 28S subunit and a large 39S subunit, with an estimated 75% protein to rRNA composition, compared to prokaryotic ribosomes where this ratio is reversed . Unlike prokaryotic ribosomes, mitoribosomes do not contain a 5S rRNA . The MRPL28 protein is part of the 39S subunit and plays a crucial role in the structural integrity and function of the mitoribosome .
The MRPL28 gene is encoded by nuclear DNA, even though the protein functions within the mitochondria . This gene is involved in pathways related to mitochondrial translation and protein metabolism . The expression of MRPL28 is observed in various tissues, with low tissue specificity . It is localized predominantly in the mitochondria, contributing to the overall protein synthesis machinery within this organelle .
Mutations or dysregulation of the MRPL28 gene can be associated with certain diseases. For instance, it has been linked to conditions such as Ascaridiasis and Nail Disorder, Nonsyndromic Congenital, 4 . Understanding the function and regulation of MRPL28 is crucial for insights into mitochondrial biology and related pathologies.
Recombinant MRPL28 refers to the protein produced through recombinant DNA technology, which involves inserting the MRPL28 gene into an expression system to produce the protein in vitro. This recombinant protein is used in various research applications to study its function, interactions, and role in mitochondrial protein synthesis .