The End-to-End Distance of RNA as a Randomly Self-Paired Polymer

TitleThe End-to-End Distance of RNA as a Randomly Self-Paired Polymer
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2011
AuthorsL. T. Fang
Refereed DesignationRefereed
Journal TitleJournal of Theoretical Biology
Volume280
Issue1
Pages101-107
Start Page101
Date Published07/2011
Abstract

In this paper, we present the end-to-end distance of randomly self-paired polymers (RSPPs). We define a randomly self-paired polymer as a linear polymer each of whose monomers has a probability, f (0<f<1), of pairing with any other one monomer. The RSPP model is inspired by numerous observations that the ends of RNAs are in close proximity. We use this model to explain this proximity. The prediction made by the RSPP model is consistent with these observations. Mapping an RNA with a length of 1000 nucleotides and a pairing fraction of 0.6 onto our RSPP model, for example, we predict an expected end-to-end distance of about 14 unpaired bases. We have also found that the expected end-to-end distance of the RSPP scales roughly as the 1/4 power of its total length.

URLhttp://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jtbi.2011.04.010
DOI10.1016/j.jtbi.2011.04.010