A cryo-EM structure of the bacterial ribosome–SecYEG complex in a so-called Nanodisc allows for the molecular interpretation of the SecYEG complex in its natural lipid bilayer environment. Molecular dynamics simulations based on the structure reveal stable interactions between ribosomal RNA and the membrane that may contribute to the insertase activity of the protein-conducting channel.
- Jens Frauenfeld
- James Gumbart
- Roland Beckmann