RNA Interference Technology From Basic Science to Drug Development [Paperback]

This book provides an overview of RNA interference (RNAi) technology, covering both fundamental science and applications.RNA Interference (RNAi) technology has rapidly become one of the key methods used in functional genomics. In this 2005 overview, the basic concepts of RNAi biology are discussed, as well as the current and potential applications, providing an invaluable reference for all those who need to understand this emerging technology.RNA Interference (RNAi) technology has rapidly become one of the key methods used in functional genomics. In this 2005 overview, the basic concepts of RNAi biology are discussed, as well as the current and potential applications, providing an invaluable reference for all those who need to understand this emerging technology.RNA Interference (RNAi) technology has rapidly become one of the key methods used in functional genomics. RNAi is used to block the expression of genes and create phenotypes that can potentially yield clues about the function of these genes. In the postgenomic era, the elucidation of the physiological function of genes has become the rate-limiting step in the quest to develop 'gene-based drugs' and RNAi could potentially play a pivotal role in the validation of such novel drugs. In this overview, the basic concepts and applications of RNAi biology are discussed. Leading experts from both academia and industry have contributed to this invaluable reference. The volume is forwarded by Andrew Fire, one of the winners of the 2006 Nobel Prize for the discovery of RNA Interference.Part I. Basic RNAi, siRNA and Gene Silencing Mechanisms: 1. RNAi beginnings: overview of the pathway in C. elegans; 2. Dicer in RNAi: its roles in vivo and utility in vitro; 3. Genes required for RNAi; 4. MicroRNAs: a small contribution from worms; 5. miRNAs in the brain and the application of RNAi to neurons; Part II. Design and Synthesis of siRNAs: 6. Design and synthesis of small interfering RNA (siRNA); 7. Automated design and high thlS2