Ribosomal Protein L35 (RPL35) is a crucial component of the large 60S subunit of ribosomes, which are the cellular organelles responsible for protein synthesis. This protein is encoded by the RPL35 gene and belongs to the L29P family of ribosomal proteins. It is located in the cytoplasm and plays a significant role in the translation process by facilitating the assembly and function of ribosomes .
The RPL35 gene is a protein-coding gene associated with several important biological pathways, including viral mRNA translation and nervous system development. The gene is located on chromosome 9 and has multiple processed pseudogenes dispersed throughout the genome . The protein itself is composed of approximately 80 structurally distinct proteins and 4 RNA species, forming a part of the large ribosomal subunit .
RPL35 is essential for the proper functioning of ribosomes. It is involved in the binding of RNA and mRNA, which are critical steps in the translation process. The protein’s role in ribosome biogenesis is vital, as it contributes to the processing of pre-rRNA and the assembly of ribosomal subunits . In vivo depletion of RPL35 results in a deficit of 60S ribosomal subunits and the appearance of half-mer polysomes, indicating its importance in ribosome synthesis .
Mutations or dysregulation of the RPL35 gene have been associated with certain diseases, such as Diamond-Blackfan Anemia (DBA), a rare genetic disorder characterized by failure of the bone marrow to produce red blood cells . Understanding the function and regulation of RPL35 can provide insights into the mechanisms underlying such diseases and potentially lead to the development of targeted therapies.
Recombinant RPL35 is used in various research applications to study ribosome function and protein synthesis. By expressing and purifying human recombinant RPL35, researchers can investigate its interactions with other ribosomal proteins and RNA, as well as its role in the translation process. This knowledge can contribute to the development of new therapeutic strategies for diseases related to ribosomal dysfunction.