RNA Interference

Abstract

AbstractRNA interference (RNAi) is a biological process where RNA molecules inhibit gene expression, through a process of the destruction of specific mRNA molecules. Two types of small ribonucleic acid (RNA) molecules, namely microRNA (miRNA) and small interfering RNA (siRNA) or silencing RNA, are essential for RNA interference. A short hairpin RNA or small hairpin RNA (shRNA/Hairpin Vector) is an artificial RNA molecule with a tight hairpin turn which can be utilized to silence target gene expression through a process called RNA interference (RNAi). Mechanism of action include cleaving the mRNA strand into two pieces, causing destabilization of the mRNA through shortening of its poly(A) tail, reduced efficiency of translation of the mRNA into proteins by ribosomes. Other form of RNA as Piwi-Interacting (pi) RNAs are single-stranded 25–31 nt reported to be associated with Piwi protein (a subclass of Argonaute proteins) and the human RecQ1 protein to form a Piwi-interacting RNA complex (piRC) for the regulation of the genome within developing sperm cells. Protocol for RNA interference has been described in detail. Certain practical applications were described for RNA interference.KeywordsRNA interferenceMicroRNA (miRNA)Small interfering RNA (siRNA)Silencing RNASmall hairpin RNA, shRNAPiwi-Interacting (pi) RNAs