An RNA aptamer that shifts the reduction potential of metabolic cofactors.

The discovery of ribozymes has inspired exploration of RNA's potential to serve as primordial catalysts in a hypothesized RNA world. Modern oxidoreductase enzymes employ differential binding between reduced and oxidized forms of redox cofactors to alter cofactor reduction potential and enhance the enzyme's catalytic capabilities. The utility of differential affinity has been underexplored as a chemical strategy for RNA.