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Updated: Jun 27, 2026

Comparative RNA Structure Analysis of Nascent and Mature Transcripts in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Published on: February 27, 2026
Periodic Temperature Fluctuations as an Energy Source for RNA Evolution
1Institute of Physical Chemistry, CENIDE, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45141 Essen, Germany.
Abstract:
The effect of periodic temperature variation on short and partially matching interacting RNA strands is demonstrated using three pairs of competing RNA duplexes as simplified model systems. They represent random base-pairing interactions between short RNA chains at very early stages of RNA evolution. The molecular interaction kinetics are simulated based on the experimental thermodynamic data obtained by M. E. Christiansen et al. and on the Eyring theory. The simulated time developments demonstrate the impact of shifting reaction kinetics and a state of continuous non-equilibrium. The product mix that develops slowly at low temperatures releases chemical (free) energy quickly at high temperatures, and the product mix that develops quickly at high temperatures releases chemical (free) energy slowly at low temperatures. Regarding heat flow and energy storage, the chosen model system represents a generalized Carnot engine, similar to most comparable reactions during RNA evolution. Its action provides a perpetual driving force for selection processes, creating ideal conditions for an ongoing molecular evolution.
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