Ribosomal protein S12, bacterial-type (S12)

Ribosomal protein S12 is an essential structural and functional component of the bacterial small ribosomal subunit (30S). It plays a key role in decoding mRNA by stabilizing the correct codon–anticodon pairing in the ribosomal active site and works alongside the 16S rRNA to ensure translation fidelity. S12 is also involved in ribosome assembly, helping chaperone proper rRNA folding and facilitating the incorporation of other ribosomal proteins. Mutations in S12 confer resistance or dependence to certain antibiotics (such as streptomycin), which directly bind near the decoding center and influence translational accuracy. As an essential protein for bacterial survival, it represents a major therapeutic target for several classes of antibiotics used to treat infections.

Other names

Small ribosomal subunit protein uS12rpsL30S ribosomal protein S12bS12

Inhibition of protein synthesis by binding to the ribosome and perturbing decoding accuracy (mainly by aminoglycosides)