28S ribosomal protein S16, mitochondrial (MRPS16)

28S ribosomal protein S16, mitochondrial (MRPS16), is a nuclear-encoded protein crucial for the assembly and function of the mitochondrial small ribosomal subunit (28S)[1][6]. Unlike prokaryotic ribosomes, mammalian mitoribosomes have distinct protein-to-RNA ratios and lack some rRNA components. MRPS16 is highly conserved, especially between yeast and mammalian mitochondria, reflecting its essential role in mitochondrial protein synthesis. It participates in the translation of mitochondrial-encoded proteins necessary for oxidative phosphorylation, the process by which mitochondrial energy is generated[1][5]. Mutations in MRPS16 disrupt mitochondrial translation and lead to severe multisystem mitochondrial diseases, including combined oxidative phosphorylation deficiency 2 (COXPD2), and have been linked to lethal neonatal syndromes involving lactic acidosis and neurological deficits[2][5]. MRPS16 is not a classical therapeutic target, but it is essential for cellular energy metabolism and mitochondrial function.

Other names

Small ribosomal subunit protein bS16mMRPS16RPMS16CGI-132MRP-S16S16mtbS16m28S ribosomal protein S16, mitochondrialCOXPD2

Not applicable; MRPS16 is not a direct drug target.