RNA Structure and Function

Most cellular RNA molecules are single stranded.  They may form secondary structures such as stem-loop and hairpin.

Figure 3-C-1.  Secondary structure of RNA.  (a) stem-loop.  (b) hairpin.

The major role of RNA is to participate in protein synthesis, which requires three classes of RNA:

messenger RNA (mRNA)

transfer RNA (tRNA)

ribosomal RNA (rRNA)

Other classes of RNA include

Ribozymes
The RNA molecules with catalytic activity.

Small RNA molecules
RNA interference and other functions.

 

Review article

A guide to ions and RNA structure - RNA, 2004.