Probing the dynamics of the P1 helix within the Tetrahymena group I intron.

ABSTRACT: RNA conformational transformations are integral to RNA's biological functions. Further, structured RNA molecules exist as a series of dynamic intermediates in the course of folding or complexation with proteins. Thus, an understanding of RNA folding and function will require deep and incisive understanding of its dynamic behavior. However, existing tools to investigate RNA dynamics are limited. Here, we introduce a powerful fluorescence polarization anisotropy approach that utilizes a rare base analogue that retains substantial fluorescence when incorporated into helices. We show that 6-methylisoxanthopterin (6-MI) can be used to follow the nanosecond dynamics of individual helices. We then use 6-MI to probe the dynamics of an individual helix, referred to as P1, within the 400nt Tetrahyme

SUBMITTER: Shi X 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2758093 | biostudies-literature | 2009 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature