Wolbachia 50S ribosomal subunit (None commonly used; in literature, may appear as "Wolbachia 50S" or simply "50S subunit")

The Wolbachia 50S ribosomal subunit is the large subunit of the bacterial ribosome, composed of 23S and 5S ribosomal RNAs and approximately 31 distinct proteins. It functions as the catalytic core for peptide bond formation during protein synthesis. This subunit is essential for bacterial viability and is broadly conserved among prokaryotes. In Wolbachia, as in other bacteria, the 50S subunit is crucial for translation and is the molecular target for several antibiotic classes—including macrolides, lincosamides, and phenicols—making it a validated therapeutic target for treating Wolbachia-associated infections and for anti-filarial strategies. Structural differences in the binding pockets between bacterial and eukaryotic ribosomes allow for selective inhibition by antibacterial drugs.

Other names

Wolbachia large ribosomal subunitWolbachia 50SBacterial 50S ribosomal subunit (general)Prokaryotic 50S ribosomal subunit

Inhibition of peptide bond formation; Blockage of ribosomal translocation; Inhibition of tRNA binding; Prevention of ribosome assembly and maturation