How one RNA nucleotide switch activates fluorescent dyes
Researchers have discovered that a specific 'nucleotide flip' in the RhoBAST RNA molecule is responsible for activating fluorescent dyes. This mechanism allows for high-resolution imaging of RNA in living cells, providing a new tool for biological research.
Why it matters
This discovery improves the precision of live-cell imaging, which is critical for understanding cellular processes and disease mechanisms.
edited by Sadie Harley , reviewed by Robert Egan
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Add as preferred source Three-dimensional structure of RhoBAST RNA interacting with the fluorophore (yellow). Credit: C. Mitteregger and R. Micura RhoBAST is a tiny RNA molecule that activates fluorescent dyes, enabling researchers to track RNA molecules in living cells with super-resolution. An international collaboration, which includes Ronald Micura and his team from the Institute of Organic Chemistry, has now shown that a small, local "nucleotide flip" within the RNA controls this fluorescence activation.
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