Stability of the inner structure constituting a 'kernel' in ribosomal cores probed by dielectric spectroscopy

In this communication we present an investigation on ribosomal cores, i.e. ribosomes deprived of a select group of ribosomal proteins by LiCl treatmen t. This study was conducted by dielectric spectroscopy technique. The aim w as to elucidate the role of ribosomal proteins in the stabilization of a ve ry stable structural nucleus previously observed within the ribosome. The r esults show that this structure withstands relatively high concentrations o f LiCl and is demolished within a limited range of salt concentration. The data discussed here corroborate the idea that this structure constitutes th e ribosomal kernel. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.