RNA Interference and Gene silencing

RNA interference, or RNAi, is a way for cells to regulate which genes would be expressed. This amazing phenomenon was first observed in petunias, when a scientist called Rich Jorgensen introduced a pigment-producing gene under the control of a powerful promoter. Instead of the expected deep purple color in the petunia, the result was a mixture of variegated and white petunias.

RNAi was named the breakthrough of the year in 2002, yielding a new potential for disease treatment and unraveling the mysteries of the functioning of human genes.

So, why do we need to shutdown the production of some genes?

• Scientists have been interested in the ability to shut down genes, so that observing the effect of turning down a gene can be observed on an organism, giving clues about the function of the gene.
• The ability to shut off the genes, may also result in developing new treatments for diseases by turning down the harmful protein producing gene.

A very beautiful article about RNA Interference, or RNAi recently appeared on pbs.org, and can be found at http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/sciencenow/3210/02.html.