Effect of cross-links on the autocatalytic polymerization of RNA-like chains

Abstract

In order to discuss some prebiotic stages, we present computer simulations assuming an autocatalytic polymerization of RNA-like chains from a random collection of oligomers in two dimensions through an equilibrium process. In the simulations we consider the effect of the possible cross-links (non-specific weak bindings among or within the polymers), that may actually contribute to the folded shape of some real polymers, and we show that cross-linking favors the appearance of larger polymers. Furthermore, we discuss the obtained scenario with regard to some experimental results, which compare well with our numerical ones.