Transfer RNAs are essential adapter molecules employed in the translational process and are highly modified all over their structure. Specific modification of the four canonical ribonucleotides (A, U, C, G) is accomplished by various proteins and/or protein complexes, ranging from simple isomerisations (e.g. Ψ) and methylations (e.g. m5C) up to complex chemical structures (e.g. mcm5s2U, ct6A). The functions of tRNA modifications are linked to the specific position and may influence translation by supporting the native ...

[Summary] Kti12 is a conserved eukaryotic protein showing sequence homology to O-phosphoseryltRNA kinase (Pstk), which is required for the synthesis of selenocysteine tRNA. Saccharomyces cerevisiae Kti12 was originally discovered in a genetic screening for resistance against zymocin, a protein toxin produced by Kluyveromyces lactis. The cytotoxicity of zymocin lies in its anticodon nuclease activity, causing tRNA depletion and cell death in sensitive yeast cells. It recognizes and cleaves a particular wobble uridine ...