- #1
Docscientist
- 101
- 11
How exactly does RNAi help in fighting against cancer gene ?
I watched a Ted-ed video about it which says that this method can be used for such purposes.Ygggdrasil said:AFAIK, there are no approved therapies that use RNAi against any disease, including cancer.
Docscientist said:I watched a Ted-ed video about it which says that this method can be used for such purposes.
https://www.google.co.in/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tzlGU5EI9rU&ved=0ahUKEwj72YnO3JjMAhUIG5QKHaPqD44QtwIIGjAA&usg=AFQjCNHEqTFNZh59Q8jo42jebsTKvEsbnQ&sig2=MTkoquDUBBTyYZ2zlAvj7g
The RNA interference (RNAi) pathway is a biological process in which small RNA molecules, known as microRNAs (miRNAs) or small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), regulate gene expression by targeting specific messenger RNAs (mRNAs) for degradation or translational repression. This pathway plays a crucial role in regulating various cellular processes and is involved in the defense against viral infections and the development of certain diseases.
The RNAi pathway begins with the production of miRNAs or siRNAs from longer double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) molecules. These small RNAs then bind to a protein complex known as the RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC). The RISC, guided by the small RNAs, can then bind to complementary sequences on target mRNAs and either degrade them or inhibit their translation into proteins.
The RNAi pathway plays a critical role in regulating gene expression by controlling the levels of specific mRNAs. It can either decrease the amount of a particular mRNA by causing its degradation or prevent translation of the mRNA into a protein. This pathway is essential for maintaining proper levels of gene expression and is involved in processes such as development, cell differentiation, and response to environmental stresses.
The RNAi pathway has many potential applications in the fields of medicine and biotechnology. It can be used to study gene function and identify potential drug targets. RNAi-based therapies are also being developed to treat diseases caused by overactive or malfunctioning genes, such as cancer and viral infections. Additionally, the RNAi pathway can be used in agricultural biotechnology to improve crop yields and increase resistance to pests and diseases.
While the RNAi pathway has great potential for therapeutic and biotechnological applications, there are some risks associated with its manipulation. Off-target effects, where the small RNAs bind to unintended targets, can lead to unintended consequences and must be carefully monitored. Additionally, long-term effects of RNAi-based therapies are still being studied, and it is important to ensure their safety before widespread use in humans.