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siRNA Transfection

Small/short interfering RNA (siRNA) transfection is an exciting new method for introducing foreign genetic information by inducing RNA interference. siRNA works by silencing key sequences on messenger RNA, which turns off specific genes by cleaving to them on the RNA strand.

When RNA transfection was first used, double-strand RNA (dsRNA) was the chosen method of delivery; researchers soon found that dsRNA elicits a viral response, and grows less effective over time. siRNA is dsRNA chemically cut into specific segments so that the entire strand or a portion of the dsRNA can cleave to the mRNA without causing a viral response.

siRNA transfection is the introduction of the siRNA into the cell through chemical and biologic reagents. While in more primitive life forms like Drosophila, the dsRNA can often be used without a problem, in mammalian cells most researchers prefer to introduce prepared siRNA directly into the cells with reagents.

siRNA transfection is currently being researched as a means to deliver designer transfection genes into cancer cells targeting the faulty DNA directly, and there is great potential in using this method for treating a number of other human ailments.

Web Resources On siRNA Transfection

siRNA Transfection
RNA Interference

Book Resources On siRNA Transfection

RNA Interference 'RNAi': Nuts and Bolts of RNAi Technology by David R. Engelke
Ribozymes and siRNA Protocols by Mouldy Sioud (Editor)

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