Architecture of the ribosome-channel complex derived from native membranes

J Mol Biol. 2005 Apr 29;348(2):445-57. doi: 10.1016/j.jmb.2005.02.053.

Abstract

The mammalian Sec61 complex forms a protein translocation channel whose function depends upon its interaction with the ribosome and with membrane proteins of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). To study these interactions, we determined structures of "native" ribosome-channel complexes derived from ER membranes. We find that the ribosome is linked to the channel by seven connections, but the junction may still provide a path for domains of nascent membrane proteins to move into the cytoplasm. In addition, the native channel is significantly larger than a channel formed by the Sec61 complex, due to the presence of a second membrane protein. We identified this component as TRAP, the translocon-associated protein complex. TRAP interacts with Sec61 through its transmembrane domain and has a prominent lumenal domain. The presence of TRAP in the native channel indicates that it may play a general role in translocation. Crystal structures of two Sec61 homologues were used to model the channel. This analysis indicates that there are four Sec61 complexes and two TRAP molecules in each native channel. Thus, we suggest that a single Sec61 complex may form a conduit for translocating polypeptides, while three copies of Sec61 play a structural role or recruit accessory factors such as TRAP.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Dogs
  • Endoplasmic Reticulum / chemistry*
  • Endoplasmic Reticulum / metabolism
  • Intracellular Membranes / chemistry*
  • Intracellular Membranes / metabolism
  • Ion Channels / chemistry
  • Ion Channels / metabolism*
  • Membrane Proteins / chemistry*
  • Membrane Proteins / metabolism*
  • Models, Molecular
  • Protein Binding
  • Protein Structure, Quaternary
  • Ribosomes / chemistry*
  • Ribosomes / metabolism*
  • SEC Translocation Channels

Substances

  • Ion Channels
  • Membrane Proteins
  • SEC Translocation Channels