Peptidyl transferase center

Peptidyl transferase
Identifiers
EC no.2.3.2.12
CAS no.9059-29-4
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MetaCycmetabolic pathway
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The peptidyl transferase center (EC 2.3.2.12, PTC) is an aminoacyltransferase ribozyme (RNA enzyme) located in the large subunit of the ribosome. It forms peptide bonds between adjacent amino acids during the translation process of protein biosynthesis. It is also responsible for peptidyl-tRNA hydrolysis, allowing the release of the synthesized peptide chain at the end of translation.

Peptidyl transferase activity is not mediated by any ribosomal proteins, but entirely by ribosomal RNA (rRNA). The catalytic activity of the PTC is a significant piece of evidence supporting the RNA World hypothesis. The PTC is a highly conserved region with a very slow rate of mutation. It is considered to be among the most ancient elements of the ribosome, probably predating the last universal common ancestor.

The position of the PTC is analogous in all ribosomes (domain V in 23S numbering), being a part of the large subunit ribosomal RNA with the name only varying due to the different size in Svedberg. It acts as a ribozyme at the lower tips (acceptor ends) of the A- and P- site tRNAs. The different names include::1062

Peptidyl transferases are not limited to translation, but there are relatively few enzymes with this function.