The L7/L12 protein forms a functionally important domain in the riboso
me. This domain is involved in interaction with translation factors du
ring protein biosynthesis. The tertiary and quaternary structure of th
e L7/L12 protein was established as a result of intensive studies in s
olution and in the ribosome. The conformational changes of L7/L12, the
elongation factors To and G and other ribosomal proteins were traced
by different experimental techniques. These changes occur upon interac
tion of the ribosome with the elongation factors and depend on GTP hyd
rolysis in accordance with the functional states of the ribosome. (C)
1997 Federation of European Biochemical Societies.