Specialized Ribosomes in Health and Disease

Ribosomal heterogeneity exists within cells and between different cell types, at specific developmental stages, and occurs in response to environmental stimuli. Mounting evidence supports the existence of specialized ribosomes, or specific changes to the ribosome that regulate the translation of a specific group of transcripts. These alterations have been shown to affect the affinity of ribosomes for certain mRNAs or change the cotranslational folding of nascent polypeptides at the exit tunnel. The identification of specialized ribosomes requires evidence of the incorporation of different ribosomal proteins or of modifications to rRNA and/or protein that lead(s) to physiologically relevant changes in translation. In this review, we summarize ribosomal heterogeneity and specialization in mammals and discuss their relevance to several human diseases.

Automated summary

Ribosomal heterogeneity exists within and between cells, and exhibits specific changes in response to developmental stages and environmental stimuli. These changes regulate the translation of specific groups of genes by altering ribosomal affinity for certain mRNAs or the folding of nascent polypeptides. The identification of specialized ribosomes relies on evidence such as different ribosomal protein composition or modifications to RNA and/or protein, resulting in physiologically relevant changes in translation. In this review, we summarize ribosomal heterogeneity and specialization in mammals and discuss their implications in several human diseases.