|SEND TO PRINTER| Feature Articles : Nov 1, 2012 ( ) RNAi’s
Enabling Powers Over the years, researchers have demonstrated
that RNAi compounds can be designed to specifically reduce the
expression of target genes before their mRNA is translated into
protein. By leveraging this knowledge, RNAi compounds can be
developed into drugs to prevent overexpression of deleterious
proteins in target cells, thus providing therapeutic benefit. At
GTC’s recent “RNAi Research and Therapeutics” conference,
speakers presented their solutions to the challenges faced by
clinical researchers looking to develop RNAi therapeutics. How
do I deliver RNAi compounds to target cells? Do I need a
delivery vehicle to facilitate cellular uptake? Can I
demonstrate sufficient knockdown, either transiently or
permanently, in my target cells? RNAi screens provide an
essential tool for gene discovery and validation of gene
function. One of the preferred approaches for RNAi screening
recommended by Thermo Fisher Scientific employs the use of poo