Examples of Structural Motifs in Viral Genomes and Approaches for RNA Structure Characterization

The relationship between conserved structural motifs and their biological function in the virus replication cycle is the interest of many researchers around the world. RNA structure is closely related to RNA function. Therefore, technological progress in high-throughput approaches for RNA structure analysis and the development of new ones are very important. In this mini review, we discuss a few perspectives on the structural elements of viral genomes and some methods used for RNA structure prediction and characterization. Based on the recent literature, we describe several examples of studies concerning the viral genomes, especially severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and influenza A virus (IAV). Herein, we emphasize that a better understanding of viral genome architecture allows for the discovery of the structure-function relationship, and as a result, the discovery of new potential antiviral therapeutics.

Automated summary

The relationship between conserved structural motifs and their biological function in the virus replication cycle is a subject of interest to researchers worldwide. Understanding RNA structure is crucial for understanding RNA function, making technological advancements in high-throughput RNA structure analysis and development of new methods highly important. In this mini review, the authors discuss the structural elements of viral genomes and methods used for RNA structure prediction and characterization. Examples from recent literature, including studies on SARS-CoV-2 and IAV, are highlighted to emphasize the importance of understanding viral genome architecture in discovering the structure-function relationship and potential antiviral therapeutics.