Latest News From the Bench:

Entropy and magnesiuum ions control the specificity of ligand binding in an a RNA aptramer. We have used isothermal titration calorimetry to show that the malachite green binding RNA aptamer switches its preference for binding from the original ligand malachite green to tetramethylrosamine in prersence of high salt concentrations or divalent metal ions. (Da Costa et al., 2011)

Secondary Structure and Dynamics of the Fragile X Syndrome mRNA CGG repeat. We have analyzed the secondary structure and dynamics of the CGG repeat sequence found in the mRNA of the Fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP). The results illustrate that the molecule can form stable double stranded structures where Watson-Crick type C:G base pairs are interrupted by G:G base pairs. The implications for mRNA stability and its potential consequences for Fragile X associated diseases are discussed (Zumwalt et al., 2007)

Rational design of a catalytic RNA by ligand engineering. We have converted an RNA aptamer into a primitive ribozyme by taking advantage of transition state stabilization during an ester hydrolysis reaction of a modified ligand/substrate inside the RNA binding pocket. (Brackett et al., 2006)

The Solution structure of the Malachite Green binding RNA aptamer - Ligand Complex provides insight into how the same RNA binding pocket can adapt to accomodate both panar and non-planar ligands. (Flinders et al., 2004)