Question

What is the function of the RNA component of the SRP?

Short answer

The RNA component of the SRP molecule interacts with the large subunit of the ribosome, and it also allows SRP to interact with its receptor.

Step-by-step solution

Signal recognition particle

The signal recognition particle, abbreviated as SRP, is a ribonucleoprotein that interacts with the ribosome to recognize the signal sequences attached to the polypeptides. It helps in the translocation of the proteins to their destination.

Function of RNA component of SRP

The RNA component of SRP helps in the cotranslational protein targeting. The S domain of the RNA attaches to the base of the large ribosomal subunit near the polypeptide exit channel, where SRP recognizes signal sequences.

The Alu domain of the RNA wraps around the large subunit so that it can interact with the ribosome at the interface of large and small subunits. The RNA also catalyzes SRP interaction with the SRP receptor.