The acidic ribosomal P proteins.

The acidic ribosomal P proteins (pI 3-4) are unique among ribosomal constituents: the only molecules on the ribosomes existing in multiple copies, they form a hetero-oligomeric complex (P1/P2)(2) recognizable as a lateral protuberance on the 60S ribosomal subunit, which is thought to be directly involved in interactions with elongation factors during the course of protein synthesis. The role of P proteins in translation is still vague; however, they might possess two functional roles-the proteins may increase performance of ribosomes and/or change ribosomal specificity toward different subset of mRNAs. Furthermore, there are also indications that P proteins might be involved in transcription and DNA repair. Also, P proteins are important antigens in autoimmune diseases, infections caused by protozoan parasites, and in molds.