TRANSESTERIFICATION OF RNA BY CU(II)TERPYRIDINE

We have used an RNA/DNA chimera, referred to as embRNA, to study the t ransesterification of RNA catalyzed by aqueous terpyridyl Cu(II). This substrate is cleaved in only one position, but it contains the polyan ionic charge and many of the metal binding sites of an RNA polymer. Th e pH rate profile and substrate dependence of the reaction are reporte d. Kinetic results are consistent with the active agent being the mono hydroxy form of the Cu(II) complex. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science S.A.