Binds the 5S and 23S rRNAs and is also seen to make contacts with the A and P site tRNAs. Interacts with A site tRNA mimics, and is probably one of the key factors, along with a helix of the 23S rRNA, in positioning tRNA stems in the peptidyl-transferase center. Part of the 50S ribosomal subunit. Contacts the CTC protein (RL25). Belongs to the universal ribosomal protein uL16 family.