30S ribosomal protein S7; One of the primary rRNA binding proteins, it binds directly to 16S rRNA where it nucleates assembly of the head domain of the 30S subunit. Is located at the subunit interface close to the decoding center, probably blocks exit of the E-site tRNA; Belongs to the universal ribosomal protein uS7 family.

50S ribosomal protein L2; One of the primary rRNA binding proteins. Required for association of the 30S and 50S subunits to form the 70S ribosome, for tRNA binding and peptide bond formation. It has been suggested to have peptidyltransferase activity; this is somewhat controversial. Makes several contacts with the 16S rRNA in the 70S ribosome. Belongs to the universal ribosomal protein uL2 family.

30S ribosomal protein S5; Located at the back of the 30S subunit body where it stabilizes the conformation of the head with respect to the body. Belongs to the universal ribosomal protein uS5 family.

50S ribosomal protein L5; This is 1 of the proteins that binds and probably mediates the attachment of the 5S RNA into the large ribosomal subunit, where it forms part of the central protuberance. In the 70S ribosome it contacts protein S13 of the 30S subunit (bridge B1b), connecting the 2 subunits; this bridge is implicated in subunit movement. Contacts the P site tRNA; the 5S rRNA and some of its associated proteins might help stabilize positioning of ribosome-bound tRNAs.

50S ribosomal protein L16; Binds 23S rRNA and is also seen to make contacts with the A and possibly P site tRNAs; Belongs to the universal ribosomal protein uL16 family.

50S ribosomal protein L3; One of the primary rRNA binding proteins, it binds directly near the 3'-end of the 23S rRNA, where it nucleates assembly of the 50S subunit; Belongs to the universal ribosomal protein uL3 family.

30S ribosomal protein S8; One of the primary rRNA binding proteins, it binds directly to 16S rRNA central domain where it helps coordinate assembly of the platform of the 30S subunit; Belongs to the universal ribosomal protein uS8 family.

50S ribosomal protein L14; Binds to 23S rRNA. Forms part of two intersubunit bridges in the 70S ribosome; Belongs to the universal ribosomal protein uL14 family.

30S ribosomal protein S11; Located on the platform of the 30S subunit, it bridges several disparate RNA helices of the 16S rRNA. Forms part of the Shine- Dalgarno cleft in the 70S ribosome; Belongs to the universal ribosomal protein uS11 family.