Abstract

Large ribozymes are unique among catalytic RNA molecules in that their reactions involve intermolecular nucleophilic attack on an RNA phosphodiester linkage. Crystal structures of near-atomic resolution are now available for the group I and group II self-splicing introns and the RNA subunit of RNase P. The structural data agrees well with the earlier models proposed on the basis of biochemical studies and the evidence at hand suggests that all of the large ribozymes utilize a mechanism in which coordination of Mg(II) ions reduces the negative charge on the scissile phosphodiester linkage, as well as assists both the nucleophilic attack and the departure of the leaving group.

Full Text
Paper version not known

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.