RNA catalysis emerges from dynamic structural ensembles.

RNA catalysis is regulated through multimodal communications within conformational ensembles involving Mg 2+ ions, not by a single static structure.

• Why it matters: Understanding the detailed mechanisms of RNA function at a near-atomic level is limited, especially regarding how structure and ions influence activity.
• What they did: Using cryo-electron microscopy data analysis focused on heterogeneity, the study determined structures of RNase P RNA ensembles with 76 coexisting conformers, highlighting the role of Mg 2+ ions and accessory proteins.
• The result: Findings reveal that RNA catalysis involves dynamic conformational ensembles modulated by Mg 2+ ions and allosteric effects, establishing a new paradigm for RNA function regulation.