Biology – Quantitative Biology – Biomolecules
Scientific paper
2006-08-09
Biology
Quantitative Biology
Biomolecules
Scientific paper
10.1140/epjb/e2006-00347-x
RNA molecules form a sequence-specific self-pairing pattern at low temperatures. We analyze this problem using a random pairing energy model as well as a random sequence model that includes a base stacking energy in favor of helix propagation. The free energy cost for separating a chain into two equal halves offers a quantitative measure of sequence specific pairing. In the low temperature glass phase, this quantity grows quadratically with the logarithm of the chain length, but it switches to a linear behavior of entropic origin in the high temperature molten phase. Transition between the two phases is continuous, with characteristics that resemble those of a disordered elastic manifold in two dimensions. For designed sequences, however, a power-law distribution of pairing energies on a coarse-grained level may be more appropriate. Extreme value statistics arguments then predict a power-law growth of the free energy cost to break a chain, in agreement with numerical simulations. Interestingly, the distribution of pairing distances in the ground state secondary structure follows a remarkable power-law with an exponent -4/3, independent of the specific assumptions for the base pairing energies.
Hui Sheng
Tang Lei-Han
No associations
LandOfFree
Ground state and glass transition of the RNA secondary structure does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.
If you have personal experience with Ground state and glass transition of the RNA secondary structure, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Ground state and glass transition of the RNA secondary structure will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-311964