The Three‐Dimensional Structure of Hammerhead Ribozymes

Two methods—one result: Through fluorescence energy transfer measurements and an X‐ray structure analysis on ribozyme–substrate complexes, the groups of Eckstein and McKay independently arrived at a largely consistent structural model for hammerhead ribozymes. Three helices are arranged in a stretched Y shape (see picture) and are stabilized by unusual interactions besides the Watson‐Crick base pairing. (Figure Presented.)