InterPro domain: IPR005662

Era is an essential G-protein in Escherichia coli identified originally as a homologue protein to Ras (E. coli Ras-like protein). It binds to GTP/GDP and contains a low intrinsic GTPase activity. Its function remains elusive, although it may be associated with cell division, energy metabolism, and cell-cycle check point. The protein has recently been shown to specifically bind to 16S rRNA and the 30S ribosomal subunit [ 1 ]. Involvement of Era in protein synthesis is suggested by the fact that Era depletionresults in the translation defect both in vitro and in vivo. A Type 2 KH domain is found near the C terminus.

1. Era, an essential Escherichia coli small G-protein, binds to the 30S ribosomal subunit. Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun. 264, 51-4