Molecular model for messenger RNA splicing.

M MacCumber; R L Ornstein

doi:10.1126/science.6200933

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PubMed · 6200933

Molecular model for messenger RNA splicing.

M MacCumber·R L Ornstein

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Abstract

A molecular model is presented for a messenger RNA (mRNA) "splice region." The model requires cation coordination to reduce backbone-backbone electrostatic repulsion and it allows for every base residue on the pre-mRNA to be stacked in A-form helical geometry with a recognition element on the intron or exon (or both) sides of the splice junction. The two nucleotides involved in the initial steps of the cleavage-ligation mechanism must adopt a non-A-form geometry, which ideally positions reactive groups on the pre-mRNA for the necessary catalytic chemistry. The model is also consistent with available biochemical data on splicing reactions.

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Adenosine Triphosphate Base Sequence Chemical Phenomena Chemistry, Physical Hydrogen Bonding Models, Molecular Nucleic Acid Conformation Nucleic Acid Precursors Phosphates RNA RNA Splicing RNA, Messenger RNA, Ribosomal RNA, Small Nuclear RNA, Transfer Journal Article Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

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M MacCumber, R L Ornstein. 1984-04-27. Molecular model for messenger RNA splicing.. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.6200933

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