A Stochastic Petri Net-Based Model of Non-Enzymatic RNA Degradation

Abstract

In recent years, RNA research has grown due to the discovery of its important role in biological systems. RNA molecules are involved in protein synthesis and play a critical role in gene expression. Many of these molecules are produced through the enzymatic digestion or spontaneous degradation of larger molecules, and are consequently essential for cellular processes. The mechanisms of RNA degradation appear to be one of the most important factors influencing RNA activity. In this study, a stochastic Petri net-based model of spontaneous (non-enzymatic) RNA degradation was built and analysed. The model was analysed using t-invariants, MCT sets, and simulation-based analyses. The systems approach enabled a thorough analysis of the phenomenon, resulting in significant biological insights.

Keywords

• nonenzymatic RNA hydrolysis
• RNA degradation
• stochastic Petri net
• mathematical modelling
• simulation