  RNA folding prediction remains challenging, but can be also studied using a
topological mathematical approach. In the present paper, the mathematical
method to compute the topological classification of RNA structures and based on
matrix field theory is shortly reviewed, as well as a computational software,
McGenus, used for topological and folding predictions. Additionally, two types
of analysis are performed: the prediction results from McGenus are compared
with topological information extracted from experimentally-determined RNA
structures, and the topology of RNA structures is investigated for biological
significance, in both evolutionary and functional terms. Lastly, we advocate
for more research efforts to be performed at intersection of
physics-mathematics and biology, and in particular about the possible
contributions that topology can provide to the study of RNA folding and
structure.
