This is 1 of the proteins that binds and probably mediates the attachment of the 5S RNA into the large ribosomal subunit, where it forms part of the central protuberance. In the 70S ribosome it contacts protein S13 of the 30S subunit (bridge B1b), connecting the 2 subunits; this bridge is implicated in subunit movement. Contacts the P site tRNA; the 5S rRNA and some of its associated proteins might help stabilize positioning of ribosome-bound tRNAs (By similarity). Contacts the P site tRNA. Forms a bridge to the 30S subunit in the 70S ribosome (By similarity). Part of the 50S ribosomal subunit. Part of the 5S rRNA/L5/L18 subcomplex; in this organism only 2 proteins, L5 and L18 have been shown to be part of the 5S rRNA subcomplex, unlike E.coli and T.thermophilus where L25 (TL5) is also found. Has been shown to bind 5S rRNA. Belongs to the universal ribosomal protein uL5 family.