Experimental Approaches for Measuring Reaction Parameters

To understand the function of a ribozyme, it is necessary to decipher the reaction the catalytic RNA promotes. As more and more RNA catalysts are discovered, then activity will be compared to gain greater understanding of how each functions. Measurement of reaction parameters provides vital information to quantify differences between ribozymes (2 ). There is also an increased interest, both academic and industrial, in utilizing reactions promoted by the catalytic RNA in vivo. A firmer understanding of catalysis of a ribozyme in vitro will supply a stronger basis for describing how cellular factors may affect RNA catalysis in vivo (2 ).