Exploring RNA conformational space under sparse distance restraints.

ABSTRACT: We show that the application of a small number of restraints predicted by coevolution analysis can provide a powerful restriction on the conformational freedom of an RNA molecule. The greatest degree of restriction occurs when a contact is predicted between the distal ends of a pair of adjacent stemloops but even with this location additional flexibilities in the molecule can mask the contribution. Multiple cross-links, especially those including a pseudoknot provided the strongest restraint on conformational freedom with the effect being most apparent in topologically simple folds and less so if the fold is more topologically entwined. Little was expected for large structures (over 300 bases) and although a few strong localised restrictions were observed, they contributed little to the re

SUBMITTER: Taylor WR 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5345030 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature