Release of Polypeptide Chain Initiation Factor IF-2 During Initiation Complex Formation

Abstract

Polypeptide chain initiation factor IF-2 binds to 30S ribosomal subunits. This binding is enhanced by IF-1 and IF-3. During GTP-dependent formation of a 70S initiation complex, IF-2 is released from the ribosome. During 70S initiation complex formation dependent on the methylene analogue of GTP, GMPPCH(2)P, IF-2 is not released, but remains bound to the 70S ribosome. This result suggests that IF-2 release requires GTP hydrolysis. In agreement with this presumed requirement, IF-2 functions catalytically with GTP, but stoichiometrically with GMPPCH(2)P, in bringing about 70S initiation complex formation.