Bioinformatics

Elements of RNA Secondary Structures and Their Classification

E. F. Baulin^ab, T. V. Astakhova^a, M. A. Roytberg<sup>a

a</sup> Institute of mathematical problems in biology RAS, 4 Institutskaya, Pushchino, Moscow Region, 142290, Russia
^b National Research University Higher School of Economics, 20 Myasnitskaya Ulitsa, Moscow, 101000, Russia

Abstract: A classification of elements of RNA secondary structure is proposed; the classification generalizes the loop classification given by Mathews and Turner. The classification allows one to describe both hpdeudoknot-free, and psedoknotted structures.

Key words: RNA, secondary structure, helix, pseudoknot, loop.

UDC: 577.214.5

Received 22.10.2012, Published 26.10.2012