Probing RNA structures and functions by solvent accessibility: an overview from experimental and computational perspectives

Characterizing RNA structures and functions have mostly been focused on 2D, secondary and 3D, tertiary structures. Recent advances in experimental and computational techniques for probing or predicting RNA solvent accessibility make this 1D representation of tertiary structures an increasingly attractive feature to explore. Here, we provide a survey of these recent developments, which indicate the emergence of solvent accessibility as a simple 1D property, adding to secondary and tertiary structures for investigating complex structure-function relations of RNAs.

Automated summary

Characterizing RNA structures and functions has traditionally focused on 2D secondary and 3D tertiary structures. However, recent advancements in understanding RNA solvent accessibility as a 1D representation highlight its importance in exploring complex structure-function relationships of RNAs.