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Turning off small RNA

Researchers at Michigan Technological University have created a method to disable small RNAs, which are crucial for our genetic makeup and can affect plant growth. By using this technique, scientists can study the function of any small RNA in cells.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateMar 1, 2012

Corn researchers discover novel gene shut-off mechanisms

A team of scientists has discovered unusual differences in the natural mechanisms that turn off genes in corn, providing new insight into how the crop protects itself from damage. The research found an extra layer of protective small RNAs in corn, which play a key role in repressing repetitive sequences, including mobile DNA elements.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 31, 2008

Identifying Piwi's partners

Researchers have identified Piwi's partners in gene silencing pathways using small RNAs in Drosophila. This finding introduces a novel pathway of gene silencing, leveraging the association of Piwi with specific small RNAs called rasiRNAs.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateJul 31, 2006

New small RNAs found

A novel class of 23-24-nt small RNAs has been identified in Tetrahymena, participating in a second distinct RNAi pathway. The discovery sheds light on the diversity of sRNA functions and biogenesis mechanisms, with potential applications for other systems.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateDec 15, 2005

miRNA profiling

The miRNA profiling technique is widely used in cancer research to identify and quantify microRNAs in tumor tissues. Researchers have found that specific miRNA patterns are associated with different types of cancers, leading to potential biomarkers for diagnosis and treatment.

SourceCold Spring Harbor Laboratory·JournalGenes & Development·DateMay 31, 2005

Sophisticated silencing strategies

A study by James Carrington and Steve Jacobsen reveals distinct classes of small RNAs in plants with specialized functions. These include genome maintenance, regulation of specific genes, and defense mechanisms, shedding light on the evolution of RNA-mediated gene silencing.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·DateFeb 24, 2004