RPL8 Human

Ribosomal Protein L8, encoded by the RPL8 gene, is a crucial component of the ribosome, the cellular machinery responsible for protein synthesis. This protein is part of the large 60S ribosomal subunit and plays a significant role in the translation process.

Ribosomes are composed of two subunits: the small 40S subunit and the large 60S subunit. The 60S subunit, which includes Ribosomal Protein L8, is made up of four RNA species and approximately 80 structurally distinct proteins . Ribosomal Protein L8 belongs to the L2P family of ribosomal proteins and is located in the cytoplasm .

In humans, Ribosomal Protein L8 is involved in binding aminoacyl-tRNA and is a constituent of the elongation factor 2-binding site at the ribosomal subunit interface . This protein is essential for the proper functioning of the ribosome and, consequently, for the synthesis of proteins within the cell.

The RPL8 gene is a protein-coding gene associated with several pathways, including viral mRNA translation and nervous system development . It has multiple processed pseudogenes dispersed throughout the genome, which is typical for genes encoding ribosomal proteins .

Ribosomal Protein L8 is ubiquitously expressed in the cytoplasm and is localized to the nucleoli, endoplasmic reticulum, and cytosol . This widespread expression underscores its fundamental role in cellular processes.

Mutations or dysregulation of the RPL8 gene have been linked to various diseases, including Diamond-Blackfan Anemia and Meckel Syndrome, Type 7 . These associations highlight the importance of Ribosomal Protein L8 in maintaining normal cellular function and development.