Hierarchy of RNA Functional Dynamics #MMPMID24606137
Mustoe AM; Brooks CL; Al-Hashimi HM
Annu Rev Biochem 2014[Jun]; 83 (ä): 441-66 PMID24606137show ga
RNA dynamics play a fundamental role in many cellular functions. However, a general framework is lacking to describe these complex processes, which typically consist of many structural maneuvers taking place over timescales ranging from picoseconds to seconds. Here we classify RNA dynamics into distinct modes representing transitions between basins on a hierarchical free energy landscape. These include large-scale secondary structural transitions occurring at >0.1 s timescales, base-pair/tertiary dynamics occurring at ?s-ms timescales, stacking dynamics at ns-?s and other ?jittering? motions occurring at ps-ns timescales. We review various modes within these three different tiers, the different mechanisms by which they are used to regulate function, and how they can be coupled together to achieve greater functional complexity.