How is it possible for single-stranded RNA to fold into complex shapes?
A) Phosphodiester linkages form between the phosphate and the sugar ribose.
B) Internal base pairings occur—adenine with uracil, and cytosine with guanine.
C) Uracil's methyl group binds to adenine, coiling the molecule.
D) The single strand "twists" around itself.
E) The RNA binds to proteins, creating a conformation (three-dimensional shape).

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Single-stranded RNA can fold into complex shapes due to internal base pairings, where adenine pairs with uracil and cytosine pairs with guanine. These base pairings create specific structural motifs, such as hairpin loops and stem-loop structures, which contribute to the overall folding of the RNA molecule. Additionally, RNA-binding proteins can also aid in the folding of RNA into specific three-dimensional shapes.

How Is It Possible for Single-Stranded RNA to Fold into Complex