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Updated: Aug 2, 2026

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RNA Secondary Structure Prediction Using High-throughput SHAPE
Published on: May 31, 2013
Template-determined, variable rate of RNA chain elongation
Cell
|October 1, 1978
Summary
RNA polymerase Q beta replicase shows variable elongation rates due to specific pause sites. These pauses, likely caused by RNA hairpin structures, may regulate nucleic acid synthesis.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Q beta replicase enzyme synthesizes MDV-1 RNA.
- The rate of RNA polymerization is known to vary.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate the causes of variable RNA polymerization rates.
- Determine the role of specific RNA sequences and structures in regulating polymerase activity.
Main Methods:
- Electrophoretic analysis of partially synthesized RNA strands.
- Nucleotide sequence analysis of elongation intermediates.
Main Results:
- Variable rates of RNA chain elongation were observed.
- Specific pause sites were identified, leading to accumulation of certain intermediates.
- Prominent intermediates showed potential for hairpin formation.
- Hairpin structures in template or product strands are implicated in pauses.
Conclusions:
- RNA hairpin formation is a likely cause of structure-induced pauses during RNA synthesis.
- These pauses may be a general mechanism for regulating nucleic acid synthesis across various polymerases.
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