50S ribosomal RNA of the bacterial large ribosomal subunit (50S rRNA)

The 50S ribosomal RNA refers to the rRNA components (23S and 5S rRNA) of the larger subunit of the bacterial ribosome. The bacterial ribosome consists of two subunits: 30S (small, with 16S rRNA) and 50S (large, with 23S and 5S rRNA and 31 proteins). The 50S subunit rRNAs play essential roles in maintaining the ribosome’s structure and catalyzing peptide bond formation during translation. The 23S rRNA forms the peptidyl transferase center, responsible for the catalytic activity of peptide bond synthesis, while 5S rRNA stabilizes ribosome structure and helps with assembly. Many antibiotics target the 50S rRNA, inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis and serving as essential therapeutic agents in bacterial infections; resistance typically develops via mutations or chemical modifications of the rRNA. The 50S rRNA is not found in eukaryotes, which have a 60S large ribosomal subunit, providing selectivity for antibacterial drugs targeting this molecule.

Other names

23S ribosomal RNA5S ribosomal RNABacterial large ribosomal subunit rRNALSU rRNA (Large Subunit rRNA)50S ribosome rRNA

Inhibition of protein synthesis by binding to 50S rRNA and blocking peptide bond formation or translocation; Interference with ribosomal assembly or function; Disruption of tRNA binding