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The accuracy of ribosomal RNA comparative structure models
Robin R Gutell1, Jung C Lee, Jamie J Cannone
1Institute for Cellular and Molecular Biology, and Section of Integrative Biology, University of Texas, 2500 Speedway, Austin, Texas 78712-1095, USA. robin.gutell@mail.utexas.edu
Current Opinion in Structural Biology
|July 20, 2002
Summary
Comparative analysis of ribosomal RNA (rRNA) secondary structures, specifically 16S rRNA and 23S rRNA, has been validated by high-resolution crystal structures. These models accurately predict base pairs and tertiary interactions within ribosomal subunits.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Structural Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Ribosomal RNA (rRNA) secondary structure models, particularly for 16S and 23S rRNA, were developed using comparative sequence analysis.
- These models were established by analyzing thousands of rRNA sequences starting in the late 1970s.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the accuracy of established 16S and 23S rRNA secondary structure models.
- To compare comparative structure models with high-resolution crystal structures of ribosomal subunits.
Main Methods:
- Comparative sequence analysis of thousands of 16S and 23S rRNA sequences.
- Determination of high-resolution crystal structures of the 30S and 50S ribosomal subunits.
Main Results:
- The comparative secondary structure models for 16S and 23S rRNA were validated against crystal structures.
- Nearly all predicted base pairs, including regular helices and tertiary interactions, were confirmed in the crystal structures.
Conclusions:
- Comparative rRNA structure models are highly accurate and reliable.
- The established models provide a robust framework for understanding rRNA structure and function within ribosomal subunits.