Messenger-dependent action of the pokeweed antiviral protein and fusidic acid on in vitro Vicia sativa L. translation.

Plant ribosome sensitivity to either pokeweed antiviral protein (PAP) or fusidic acid has been investigated using a highly coupled translation system obtained from Vicia sativa L., a plant that lacks ribosome-inactivating protein activity. Protein synthesis directed by endogenous messengers was more sensitive to PAP than synthesis of polyphenylalanine directed by polyuridylic acid. Conversely, the effects of fusidic acid were the highest in polyphenylalanine synthesis. Additionally, the concentration of magnesium ions during translation also played a determinant role in the extent of inhibition by both PAP and fusidic acid. The effects seem to be exerted on the interaction of the translational elongation factor 2 with the ribosome.