Comparative mode: In comparative mode, the RNA sequence of interest is compared to a known reference sequence. This can be used to identify conserved regions of the RNA molecule, which can provide clues about its function. Comparative mode analysis can also be used to predict the secondary structure of an RNA molecule by comparing it to the secondary structure of a known RNA molecule with a similar sequence. This allows researchers to infer the structure of the RNA molecule even if its structure has not been experimentally determined.
Non-comparative mode: In non-comparative mode, the RNA sequence of interest is analyzed without reference to a known RNA sequence. This can involve predicting the secondary or tertiary structure of the RNA molecule, identifying potential binding sites for proteins or small molecules, or simulating the behavior of the RNA molecule under different conditions. Non-comparative mode analysis can also involve identifying structural motifs or features that are important for RNA function. Non-comparative mode analysis can be used when a reference sequence is not available, or when the RNA molecule of interest is highly divergent from known RNA sequences.