MUTATIONS IN 23-S RIBOSOMAL-RNA PERTURB TRANSFER-RNA SELECTION AND CAN LEAD TO STREPTOMYCIN DEPENDENCE

Escherichia coli ribosomes with a G to C transversion at position 2661 in 23 S ribosomal RNA are more accurate in tRNA selection than wild-type ribosomes. This enhanced accuracy is due to improved initial selection of ternary complexes rather than proof reading of aminoacyl-tRNAs. The 2661C mutation reduces the binding rate of cognate ternary complexes to the A-site. This binding rate deficiency becomes dramatic when ribosomes also harbour an S12 mutation with a streptomycin-resistant, hyperaccurate phenotype. In this case, severe loss of kinetic efficiency in EF-Tu function leads to cell death. Streptomycin restores viability by increasing the association rate of ternary complex to these doubly altered ribosomes. The binding rate of EF-G to 2661C ribosomes is also reduced while the translocation rate is unaffected. © 1994 Academic Press Limited.