Sequence requirements for efficient translational frameshifting in the Escherichia coli dnaX gene and the role of an unstable interaction between tRNA(Lys) and an AAG lysine codon.

Synthesis of the γ-subunit of DNA polymerase III holoenzyme depends on precise and efficient translational frameshifting to the -1 frame at a specific site in the dnaX gene of Escherichia coli. In vitro mutagenesis of this frameshift site demonstrated the importance of an A AAA AAG heptanucleotide sequence, which allows two adjacent tRNAs to retain a stable interaction with mRNA after they slip to the -1 position