Forms a cluster with L17 and L22, and with L22, a pair of 'tweezers' that hold together all the domains of the 23S rRNA. Interacts with the antibiotic troleandomycin which blocks the peptide exit tunnel. Binds 1 zinc ion per subunit. Part of the 50S ribosomal subunit. Contacts proteins L17 and L22. Belongs to the bacterial ribosomal protein bL32 family.