Mismatched base pairing in RNA crystal structures

Citation
Bc. Pan et M. Sundaralingam, Mismatched base pairing in RNA crystal structures, INT J QUANT, 75(3), 1999, pp. 275-287
Citations number
72
Categorie Soggetti
Physical Chemistry/Chemical Physics
Journal title
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF QUANTUM CHEMISTRY
ISSN journal
00207608 → ACNP
Volume
75
Issue
3
Year of publication
1999
Pages
275 - 287
Database
ISI
SICI code
0020-7608(19991105)75:3<275:MBPIRC>2.0.ZU;2-O
Abstract
Non-Watson-Crick base pairs or mismatches in RNA crystal structures have be en summarized and their effects on the geometry of RNA molecules and their biological implications have been discussed. The mismatches can distort the helical structures by producing kinks/bends and can increase or decrease t he major groove width, depending on the sequence. The helical irregularitie s may serve as potential sites for interaction with proteins. The different base-stacking patterns of the mismatches together with the flanking Watson -Crick base pairs can also provide unique recognizable surfaces for interac tion with ligands. Mismatches are usually more hydrated than the Watson-Cri ck base pairs. Details of hydration of mismatches show the interaction of w ater molecules with the appendant functional groups of the mismatches. Mism atches with only one base-base hydrogen bond have been observed, in which b ridging water molecules replace-one of the direct base pair hydrogen bonds to stabilize the conformation. (C) 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.