TectoRNAs are modular RNA units able to self-assemble into larger nanostructures in a programmable fashion. They are generated by rational design through an approach called RNA architectonics, which make use of RNA structural modules identified in natural (or sometimes artificial) RNA molecules to form pre-defined 3D structures spontaneously.[1]
The abilities of RNA which is capable of catalysis and non-canonical base pairing make it an attractive biomolecule for design. By applying the knowledge of computational modeling and biochemical characterization, RNA can be shaped into defined geometries and conduct various functions. As such, tectoRNA can also carry functions to build large functional nanostructures which can be used for synthetic biology and nanotechnology application.