Probing small non-coding RNAs structures

Methods Mol Biol. 2015:1296:119-36. doi: 10.1007/978-1-4939-2547-6_12.

Abstract

The diverse roles of RNAs depend on their ability to fold so as to form biologically functional structures. Thus, understanding the function of a given RNA molecule often requires experimental analysis of its secondary structure by in vitro RNA probing, which is more accurate than using prediction programs only. This chapter presents in vitro RNA probing protocols that we routinely use, from RNA transcript production and purification to RNA structure determination using enzymatic (RNases T1, T2, and V1) and chemical (DMS, CMCT, kethoxal, and Pb(2+)) probing performed on both unlabeled and end-labeled RNAs.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • In Vitro Techniques
  • Molecular Probe Techniques*
  • Nucleic Acid Conformation*
  • RNA, Small Untranslated / chemistry*

Substances

  • RNA, Small Untranslated