Mitochondrial ribosomal protein L12 (MRPL12)

Mitochondrial ribosomal protein L12 (MRPL12) is a nuclear-encoded component of the large (39S) subunit of the mitochondrial ribosome, essential for mitochondrial protein synthesis by acting as a structural constituent of the ribosome[3][4]. Unlike many other ribosomal proteins, MRPL12 also functions independently in the mitochondrial matrix; in its “free” form, it binds directly to mitochondrial RNA polymerase (POLRMT) to stimulate mitochondrial gene transcription, thereby linking and potentially regulating both transcription and translation within mitochondria[1][2][3]. MRPL12 is required for POLRMT stability and mitochondrial gene expression, and mutations can result in primary mitochondrial translation defects and combined oxidative phosphorylation deficiencies[2][3]. Increased MRPL12 expression is linked to tumor proliferation and poor prognosis in several cancers, and dysregulation is implicated in diabetic kidney disease and myocardial dysfunction in diabetes[2]. No direct drug interactions or therapeutic targeting is established; MRPL12 is currently not a classical therapeutic target but has important roles in mitochondrial function and disease biology[2][3].

Other names

Large ribosomal subunit protein bL12m39S ribosomal protein L12, mitochondrialMRPL7RPML12L12mtMRP-L12MRPL7/L12bL12mlarge ribosomal subunit protein bL12mmitochondrial large ribosomal subunit protein bL12mMRP-L31/345c5-2