FAQ: Is NudC decapping activity affected by the structure of the RNA?

Yes. It has been reported that NudC's rate of decapping is slower on RNA containing 5′ secondary structure ⁽¹⁾. If the RNA is expected to contain substantial secondary structure, one can increase the enzyme concentration and/or increase the incubation time to achieve a higher level of decapping.

1. Höfer K. et al. (2016) Nat Chem Biol.12, 730-734.