Ribosomal Protein 4X (RPS4X) is a component of the 40S subunit of cytoplasmic ribosomes, which are essential organelles responsible for protein synthesis in cells. Ribosomes consist of a small 40S subunit and a large 60S subunit, together composed of four RNA species and approximately 80 structurally distinct proteins . RPS4X belongs to the S4E family of ribosomal proteins and is unique in that it is encoded by more than one gene, specifically the X-linked RPS4X and the Y-linked RPS4Y .
RPS4X is a highly conserved protein that plays a crucial role in the assembly and function of the ribosome. It is involved in the translation of messenger RNA (mRNA) into proteins, a fundamental process for cellular life . The protein is composed of 263 amino acids and has a molecular weight of approximately 32 kDa . The structure of RPS4X includes an N-terminal His-tag, which facilitates its purification and study in recombinant form .
The expression of ribosomal proteins, including RPS4X, is tightly regulated to maintain the appropriate stoichiometry of ribosomal components. Feedback mechanisms exist to control the production of ribosomal proteins, ensuring that their levels are balanced with other ribosomal components . In humans, the expression of RPS4X is not subject to X-inactivation, meaning that both the X-linked and Y-linked versions of the protein are expressed .
Recombinant RPS4X is typically produced using bacterial expression systems, such as Escherichia coli (E. coli). The gene encoding RPS4X is cloned into an expression vector, which is then introduced into E. coli cells. The bacteria are cultured, and the recombinant protein is expressed and purified using chromatography techniques . The purified protein is often stored in a buffer containing Tris-HCl, glycerol, NaCl, and dithiothreitol (DTT) to maintain its stability .
RPS4X, like other ribosomal proteins, can undergo various post-translational modifications that may affect its function and interactions. These modifications include phosphorylation, methylation, and acetylation. Analytical techniques such as mass spectrometry, X-ray crystallography, and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy are used to study the structure and function of RPS4X .
RPS4X has been implicated in various cellular processes and diseases. For example, haploinsufficiency of the RPS4X gene has been suggested to play a role in Turner syndrome, although this hypothesis remains controversial . Additionally, dysregulated expression of ribosomal proteins, including RPS4X, has been observed in certain cancers and is predictive of disease progression .