How RNA Interference (RNAi Silencing) Works |
Cells can
inhibit the expression of individual genes (stop proteins from being made)
by interfering with a mRNA being transcribed. This is done vai a small double-stranded RNA. An enzyme named DICER snips short interfering RNAs (siRNA) from longer double stranded RNAs made by (A) self-copying gene sequences, (B) by replicating viruses, or (C) regulatory RNA sequences known as microRNAs. All the RNAs (A, B, & C) are cleaved by DICER enzyme into short siRNA pieces that can suppress gene expression. |
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How RNA Interference (RNAi Silencing) Works | |||
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A fluorescent protein gene was incorporated into cultured cells and their glow revealed successful translation of their mRNA into lamin protein. |
However, the lamin
protein glow disappeared in cells that took up an artificial siRNA for the lamin gene. |
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