Gene silencing by RNA interference: a review

Abstract

RNA interference (RNAi)-based gene silencing has emerged as a potent method for regulating gene expression, with applications spanning biology, medicine, and biotechnology. RNAi exploits natural cellular machinery to selectively suppress target gene expression through the targeted degradation of mRNA based on its specific sequence. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) and small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) are two examples of tiny RNA molecules that are introduced during this process; they direct the silencing complex induced by RNA (RISC) in response to complementary mRNA and repress its translation. Several biological functions, including cellular homeostasis maintenance and developmental regulation against viral infections and transposable elements, depend heavily on RNAi-mediated gene silencing. In research, RNAi has revolutionized functional genomics by enabling high-throughput analysis of gene functions and regulatory networks. Moreover, RNAi-based screening approaches have facilitated the discovery of novel drug targets and therapeutic agents. In medicine, RNAi shows potential for addressing genetic disorders, viral infections, cancer, and other diseases by providing a means for precise and targeted intervention. Nevertheless, issues with delivery, specificity, immunogenicity, and safety impede the clinical translation of RNAi-based treatments. RNAi has shown great promise in biotechnology and agriculture for bioproduction, crop improvement, and pest management. Despite these challenges, the rapid advancement of RNAi research and technology holds immense potential to further our understanding of gene regulation and revolutionize therapeutic interventions. An overview of the relevance and uses of RNAi in gene silencing is given in this review, emphasizing the role it will play in directing future biological and medical research.

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