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Overview of RNA Interference and Related Processes

David Baulcombe¹

¹The Sainsbury Laboratory John Innes Center, Norwich, United Kingdom

Publication Name:

Current Protocols in Molecular Biology

Unit Number:

Unit 26.1

DOI:

10.1002/0471142727.mb2601s62

Online Posting Date:

May, 2003

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Abstract

The history of RNA interference (RNAi) has unfolded rapidly since 1997 with a series of discoveries from plants, fungi, and animals. Initially, the interest was directed towards development of gene silencing technology that could be applied in research, medical therapy, and crop improvement. However, as the underlying mechanism was revealed, it became apparent that RNAi manifests a novel system of genetic regulation that was only hinted at by previous data. This overview unit gives a brief history of the field, describes the natural role of RNAi and related processes, identifies strategies for RNAi and cosuppression in plants and animals, and describes methods for detection and characterization of siRNA and miRNA.

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History
Natural Roles of RNAi and Related Processes
Strategies for RNAi and Cosuppression in Plants and Animals
Detection and Characterization of siRNAs and miRNAs
Literature Cited

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Literature Cited

Literature Cited
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