R2DT: a comprehensive platform for visualizing RNA secondary structure

Nucleic Acids Res. 2025 Feb 8;53(4):gkaf032. doi: 10.1093/nar/gkaf032.

Abstract

RNA secondary (2D) structure visualization is an essential tool for understanding RNA function. R2DT is a software package designed to visualize RNA 2D structures in consistent, recognizable, and reproducible layouts. The latest release, R2DT 2.0, introduces multiple significant features, including the ability to display position-specific information, such as single nucleotide polymorphisms or SHAPE reactivities. It also offers a new template-free mode allowing visualization of RNAs without pre-existing templates, alongside a constrained folding mode and support for animated visualizations. Users can interactively modify R2DT diagrams, either manually or using natural language prompts, to generate new templates or create publication-quality images. Additionally, R2DT features faster performance, an expanded template library, and a growing collection of compatible tools and utilities. Already integrated into multiple biological databases, R2DT has evolved into a comprehensive platform for RNA 2D visualization, accessible at https://r2dt.bio.

MeSH terms

  • Computer Graphics
  • Nucleic Acid Conformation*
  • Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide
  • RNA Folding
  • RNA* / chemistry
  • RNA* / genetics
  • Software*

Substances

  • RNA