A new method simplifies the analysis of RNA structure
Thursday, October 30, 2014 - 08:00
in Physics & Chemistry
To understand the function of an RNA molecule, similar to the better-known DNA and vital for cell metabolism, we need to know its three-dimensional structure. Unfortunately, establishing the shape of an RNA strand is anything but easy and often requires a combination of experimental techniques and computer-based simulations. Many computing methods are used but these are often complex and slow, and vary depending on the problem at hand. A team of scientists from SISSA – the International School for Advanced Studies of Trieste – has devised a simple and versatile method, based on the geometry of the RNA molecule, which proved to be highly promising for analysing and understanding the complex interactions that characterise these molecules.