RNA interference (RNAi)

Definition

RNA interference (RNAi) is a biological process where RNA molecules inhibit gene expression by neutralizing targeted mRNA molecules. It is a key tool in genetic research and biotechnology for silencing specific genes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. RNAi can be triggered by double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) introduced into cells.
2. The core components of RNAi include Dicer and the RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC).
3. RNAi plays a crucial role in defending against viral infections and transposable elements.
4. In pharmaceutical applications, RNAi is used to develop therapies for diseases caused by overexpression of specific genes.
5. RNAi pathways are highly conserved across eukaryotic organisms.

Review Questions

• What initiates the RNA interference process in cells?
• Name two key proteins involved in the RNAi mechanism.
• How is RNAi utilized in developing therapeutic drugs?

Related terms

Dicer: An enzyme that cleaves double-stranded RNA into small interfering RNAs (siRNAs).

RISC: The RNA-induced silencing complex that mediates the degradation of target mRNA.

siRNA: Small interfering RNAs that guide the RISC to complementary mRNA for degradation.