Year: 2003
Type: review
Abstract: The speed at which RNA molecules decompose is a critical determinant of many biological processes, including those directly involved in the storage and expression of genetic information. One mechanism for RNA cleavage involves internal phosphoester transfer, wherein the 2'-oxygen atom carries out an SN2-like nucleophilic attack on the adjacent phosphorus center (transesterification). In this article, we discuss fundamental principles of RNA transesterification and define a conceptual framework that can be used to assess the catalytic power of enzymes that cleave RNA. We deduce that certain ribozymes and deoxyribozymes, like their protein enzyme counterparts, can bring about enormous rate enhancements.
Source: RNA
DOI: 10.1261/rna.5680603
Institution: Yale University
Language: English
Subfield: Molecular Biology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W2160498409