The electrostatic molecular potential of tRNAPhe. V. The influence of counterion binding on the potential and the steric accessibility

Abstract

An investigation is carried out of the influence of counterions bound to yeast tRNAPhe on the electrostatic potential and steric accessibility of this macromolecule. Two types of cations are considered, the Mg2+ ions located in the crystal of tRNAPhe, with their waters of hydration, and Na+ ions, which are positioned by theoretical estimation. Possible effects of the counterions on the chemical reactivity of tRNAPhe are pointed out.