PlumX Metrics
Embed PlumX Metrics

Unusually short RNA sequences: Design of a 13-mer RNA that selectively binds and recognizes theophylline

Journal of the American Chemical Society, ISSN: 0002-7863, Vol: 127, Issue: 15, Page: 5290-5291
2005
  • 44
    Citations
  • 0
    Usage
  • 64
    Captures
  • 0
    Mentions
  • 0
    Social Media
Metric Options:   Counts1 Year3 Year

Metrics Details

Article Description

RNA plays critical roles in numerous biological processes and constitutes valuable therapeutic targets. RNA is significant not only for its roles in transmitting the genetic code but also for its enzymatic functions in ribozymes and in peptide bond formation in ribosomes. Recent studies have shown that RNAs containing as few as 22 nucleotides can be key elements in cellular functions. This suggests the possibility of using short RNAs as regulatory elements. Here, we show that ligand recognition and selectivity by RNA molecules can occur with only the presence of a binding pocket and as few as six additional scaffolding nucleotides holding the binding pocket in place. A 13-mer RNA truncation of a 33-mer aptamer for theophylline preserves the ability to bind to theophylline and to discriminate against the structurally similar compound caffeine. The truncated aptamer retains nearly all of the same structural elements in its binding site as those present in the original aptamer. This is the first demonstration of selective ligand binding by a 13-mer RNA. Copyright © 2005 American Chemical Society.

Bibliographic Details

Anderson, Peter C; Mecozzi, Sandro

American Chemical Society (ACS)

Chemical Engineering; Chemistry; Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Provide Feedback

Have ideas for a new metric? Would you like to see something else here?Let us know