The centrality of RNA in cellular function and regulation is becoming increasingly apparent, yet we still lack a basic and predictive understanding of how RNA overcomes basic physical and energetic challenges in assuming a diversity of three-dimensional structures.  We also face challenges in trying to unravel the critical properties of RNA, such as the enormous energetics of the ubiquitous ion atmosphere that surrounds polyelectrolytes such as RNA, the ensemble nature of unfolded and partially folded states, and the cooperativity inherent to structure formation.  On the other hand, certain simplicities inherent to RNA tertiary structure may simplify the study of RNA and provide a path toward a quantitative and predictive understanding of RNA folding.  These simplifications center around the apparently modular nature of RNA interactions, the limited regions of close packing (relative to proteins), and the high stability of isolated secondary structure elements.  I will describe progress in determining the properties of isolated RNA elements and how the properties of these elements may impact overall folding and stability, and I will present a kinetic and thermodynamic framework for folding of an RNA that allows us to begin testing our ability to predict the behavior of complex, cooperatively folding RNAs.

RNA form, folding, and function: Toward a quantitative and predictive understanding

245th National Meeting (2013)

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