November 1, 1986
RNA as an Enzyme
It was long thought that every cellular reaction is catalyzed by a protein enzyme. The discovery that RNA can cut, splice and assemble itself overturns the principle-and throws light on early evolution
This article was originally published with the title “ RNA as an Enzyme ” in Scientific American Magazine Vol. 255 No. 5 ( November 1986 ) , p. 64
doi: 10.1038/scientificamerican1186-64
Learn and share the most exciting discoveries, innovations and ideas shaping our world today.
Scientific American is part of Springer Nature, which owns or has commercial relations with thousands of scientific publications (many of them can be found at www.springernature.com/us). Scientific American maintains a strict policy of editorial independence in reporting developments in science to our readers.
© 2024 SCIENTIFIC AMERICAN, A DIVISION OF SPRINGER NATURE AMERICA, INC.
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
