Our research is focused on elucidating the structure and functions of the ribosome, understanding the basic principles of protein synthesis in bacteria, the modes of action of ribosome-targeting antibiotics, and mechanisms of drug resistance at a structural level. While the general process of protein synthesis is relatively well understood, several fundamental questions central to the ribosome structure, function and evolution remain obscure. Understanding these aspects of translation is greatly facilitated by the use of X-ray crystallography technique that provides a structural basis for the molecular mechanisms, by which the ribosome and associated translation factors (such as release factors) achieve their roles in protein synthesis.