Progress Predicting RNA Secondary and Tertiary Structure from Sequence

Due to pioneering efforts such as the Human Genome Project, entire genomes can be sequenced accurately and efficiently. Similarly, the number of available sequences of non-coding RNAs has skyrocketed. These non-coding RNAs serve many roles, from modulating gene expression to catalyzing reactions. Although sequence information abounds, a critical barrier remains in understanding secondary and tertiary structures. Structure determines mechanism of action, biological function, RNA interaction with other biomolecules, and drug targets. However, far more RNA sequences are available than solved RNA 3D structures. While GenBank contains >215 million sequences and >388 billion DNA base pairs, the Protein Data Bank contains only ~4600 RNA 3D structures. It is unrealistic to solve 3D structures of all of the interesting RNA sequences known. Therefore, predicting secondary structure from sequence and then predicting 3D structure from secondary structure are the next essential steps toward understanding RNA structure and function. This talk will provide an update on our progress predicting RNA secondary and tertiary structure from sequence.