Computational design of an RNA hexagonal nanoring and an RNA nanotube.

The combination of computer modeling, RNA structure versatility, and siRNA function can be efficiently used to design an all-RNA nanoparticle capable of siRNA delivery. Here, we present a computational design of an RNA nanoring and a nanotube. An RNA nanoring consists of six simple linear building blocks that are assembled together via known noncovalent loop-loop contacts based on RNAI/RNAII inverse sequences. The helical sequences of the building blocks can include siRNAs for drug delivery.