| Abstract: | The secondary structure of an adenovirus associated low molecular weight RNA (VAI-RNA) has been studied by partial digestion with T1-RNase and S1-endonuclease followed by T1-fingerprint analysis. The empirical secondary structure has been compared with two computer generated models based on minimal free energy of the structure. The results suggest that VAI-RNA in solution has a compact structure with a free energy of around -60 kcal with two stems and four bulge regions. The implication of this structure for the function of VAI-RNA is discussed. |
