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tRNA-rRNA sequence homologies: Evidence for a common evolutionary origin?

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Summary

Many tRNAs ofE. coli and yeast contain stretches whose base sequences are similar to those found in their respective rRNAs. The matches are too frequent and extensive to be attributed to coincidence. They are distributed without discernible pattern along and among the RNAs and between the two species. They occur in loops as well as in stems, among both conserved and non-conserved regions. Their distributions suggest that they reflect common ancestral origins rather than common functions, and that they represent true homologies.

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This paper is dedicated to the memory of Prof. W. Gordon Whaley, in recognition of his important contributions to cell biology and graduate education, and in appreciation of his help and encouragement.

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Bloch, D.P., McArthur, B., Widdowson, R. et al. tRNA-rRNA sequence homologies: Evidence for a common evolutionary origin?. J Mol Evol 19, 420–428 (1983). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02102317

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02102317

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