Question

A single strand of RNA with sequence 5'-UGAAUUGCAUCGGCAAUUGG-3' has the potential to form which structure?

1) Bulge loop
2) Internal loop
3) Stem loop
4) Multi branched loop

Answer 1

The RNA sequence can form a stem-loop structure, where complementary regions base pair to create a double-stranded stem and the remaining unpaired nucleotides form a loop.

Step-by-step explanation:

The RNA sequence 5'-UGAAUUGCAUCGGCAAUUGG-3' has the potential to form a secondary structure known as a stem-loop structure. This structure occurs when a single-stranded RNA folds back on itself and forms intramolecular hydrogen bonds between complementary nucleotides. A stem-loop is a common RNA structural motif that includes a double-stranded 'stem' and a single-stranded 'loop'. Considering the sequence provided, certain regions can base pair with complementary sequences to create the stem, while unpaired nucleotides would form the loop.