Probing RNA Base Pairing And Ligand Interactions In Solution With Infrared-Based Microfluidic Modulation Spectroscopy

RNA structure and dynamics play a critical role in regulating biological processes. Understanding the conformational landscape is essential for unraveling RNA functionality, stability, and its use as both a therapeutic and a therapeutic target. Microfluidic Modulation Spectroscopy (MMS) is a novel solution-state infrared spectroscopy technique that is sensitive to changes in nucleic acid base conformation and hydrogen bonding patterns. MMS can differentiate various base-pairing interactions, including Watson-Crick, AU, and GU wobble pairs, and has the capability to monitor changes in base pairing during melts. Additionally, MMS successfully detects lipid adduct formation, demonstrating its ability to capture therapeutically relevant modifications that may impact RNA function and base-pairing dynamics. MMS also detects ligand-induced conformational changes in riboswitches, reinforcing its potential in RNA-targeted drug discovery.  

Download the poster to learn more about how MMS is used to investigate RNA structure, base-pairing dynamics, and ligand-induced conformational changes