RNA Captures More Cations than DNA: Insights from Molecular Dynamics Simulations.

ABSTRACT: The distribution of cations around nucleic acids is essential for a broad variety of processes ranging from DNA condensation and RNA folding to the detection of biomolecules in biosensors. Predicting the exact distribution of ions remains challenging since the distribution and, hence, a broad variety of nucleic acid properties depend on the salt concentration, the valency of the ions, and the ion type. Despite the importance, a general theory to quantify ion-specific effects for highly charged biomolecules is still lacking. Moreover, recent experiments reveal that despite their similar building blocks, DNA and RNA duplexes can react differently to the same ionic conditions. The aim of our current work is to provide a comprehensive set of molecular dynamics simulations using more than 180 μ

SUBMITTER: Cruz-Leon S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9639116 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature