Articles tagged with Rna Interference
A team of scientists has found that Dicer, an ancient protein, plays a vital role in resolving conflicts between transcription and replication processes in the genome. Without Dicer, T-R collisions lead to DNA damage, mutations, and cancer. The study highlights the importance of Dicer in maintaining genome stability.
Researchers have developed a novel technology that can simultaneously silence two notoriously difficult-to-target cancer-related genes, KRAS and MYC. This innovation has the potential to treat cancers that have been challenging to treat, with significant implications for patients.
A new injection of zilebesiran, an investigational therapeutic, shows sustained reduction in blood pressure for people inadequately controlled with standard treatment. The results could have a big positive impact on those with high-blood pressure affecting around 1 in 3 adults in the UK.
Researchers at the University of Gothenburg discovered that the influenza A virus exploits a protein called AGO2 to regulate gene activity and weaken the immune system. An existing drug, arsenic trioxide, showed promise in increasing interferon production and reducing viral loads.
A team of researchers at Queen Mary University of London discovered that disrupting a single amino acid in the vimentin protein makes breast cancer cells behave like stem cells. This mutation promotes tumour growth and increases cancer stemness in an oestrogen-independent manner.
Researchers developed a new system to produce high-yield proteins in lettuce by silencing specific genes. This method increases recombinant protein expression by over two times, making it a promising alternative for large-scale production.
Researchers found that plants use both DDM1 and RNAi to control chromosome division, providing a 'backup plan' when one molecule is lost. This discovery may lead to better treatments for human diseases such as ICF syndrome and cancer progression.
A new study reveals that two specific genes in the RNA interference pathway play a crucial role in preventing virus transmission from parent to progeny in plants. This discovery could lead to healthier crops and potentially reduce the transmission of diseases like Zika from mothers to human children.
Researchers from University of Maryland discovered RNA mechanisms that can lead to more effective and durable RNA-based drug treatments for conditions like high cholesterol, liver diseases, and cancers. The study highlighted the need to consider drug resistance when developing these treatments.
Researchers at UC Riverside demonstrate a new vaccine strategy targeting a common viral genome part, eliminating the need for annual booster shots. The vaccine uses small RNA molecules to boost the immune system, making it safe for babies and those with weakened immunity.
In a phase 2 clinical trial, zilebesiran significantly reduced 24-hour mean ambulatory systolic blood pressure in adults with mild to moderate hypertension. The treatment was administered subcutaneously at varying doses and intervals, demonstrating its potential as an RNA interference therapeutic for managing hypertension.
Researchers at Northwestern University have discovered that toxic short RNAs contribute to neuron death and DNA damage in Alzheimer's disease. Studies found that older individuals with superior memories have higher amounts of protective short RNA strands in their brains.
Researchers at Northwestern University identified a new evolutionarily conserved RNAi-based form of cell death called Death Induced by Survival gene Elimination (DISE), which targets essential survival genes in cancer cells. This mechanism is ancient and effective against all cancers tested.
A study found that the pheromone 4-vinylanisole reduces locusts' transition time from solitary to gregarious behavior, increasing social interactions. This discovery provides insights into locust behavioral plasticity and aggregation mechanisms.
Researchers successfully delivered stabilized divalent siRNA molecules to animal models that blocked SARS-CoV-2 and prevented infection. The technology is adaptable for other pulmonary diseases such as pulmonary fibrosis and respiratory viruses.
A team led by Dr. Feng Wang found that Argonaute 4 binds to and retains snippets of ribonucleic acid molecules guiding the chemical inactivation of genes with matching sequences, playing a crucial role in gene silencing through DNA methylation. The retained RNA fragments help tether AGO4-RNA complexes to corresponding DNA sequences, bo...
Scientists have identified horizontally transferred genes in insect genomes as valid targets for selectively killing green peach aphids and whiteflies. Silencing these genes using RNA interference reduces pest survival by up to 40%, with potential expansion to other insects through 'stacking' multiple targets.
Researchers discovered that RNA interference, a viral defence mechanism, also prevents overproduction of body's own proteins in intestinal cells, promoting ER quality control. This interplay is crucial for maintaining protein balance and overall intestinal health.
Lumasiran, an RNA interference therapeutic, has been shown to reduce oxalate levels in patients with primary hyperoxaluria type 1 (PH1) who have relatively preserved kidney function. In the ILLUMINATE-C study, lumasiran resulted in substantial reductions in plasma oxalate with acceptable safety in patients on hemodialysis.
Researchers at the University of Tsukuba have created a genetic toolkit to investigate the molecular mechanisms of a parasitic wasp, Asobara japonica. By analyzing its genome and using RNA interference, they identified key genes involved in venom production and found that suppressing these genes can lead to phenotypic changes.
Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory have made a breakthrough in understanding how the RNAi process keeps cells healthy. They discovered that the workhorse protein Argonaute (Ago) uses phosphorylation to break its grip on mRNA targets, allowing it to repress other proteins.
Researchers found that chronic dietary exposure to RNAi pesticides enhances their efficacy in controlling pests, allowing for lower concentrations to be used for effective control. This breakthrough has implications for optimizing dsRNA spray approaches and developing genetically engineered crops with built-in pest control.
A recent study published in Nature Plants reveals that short double-stranded small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) are the primary messengers responsible for RNA interference in plants. These siRNAs can travel vast distances, enabling plants to modulate gene expression at a distance and adapt to their environment through phenotypic plasticity.
Small interfering RNA (siRNA) shows potential for treating human diseases by selectively silencing pathological pathways. The review examines siRNA therapeutics in preclinical and clinical trials, challenges faced in siRNA therapy, and the feasibility of combining siRNA with anticancer drugs.
A Phase 3 study found lumasiran to be effective in reducing 24hr urinary oxalate excretion by 65.4% and normalizing oxalate levels in patients with PH1. The treatment also showed an encouraging safety profile, with mild injection-site reactions being the most common adverse event.
Researchers found that RNAi machinery primarily localizes at apical adherens junctions in healthy colon cells but becomes mis-localized in colon cancer. This localization plays a crucial role in maintaining epithelial homeostasis, with restoration of the RNAi machinery potentially serving as a brake on tumor progression.
A recent study reveals a new link between the pathways involved in RNA degradation, identifying a critical protein called RPT2a that targets RNA quality control proteins for degradation. This finding has potential applications in antiviral development, gene therapy, and agriculture.
Researchers have discovered a new role for Argonaute proteins in the nucleus, where they bind to enhancer regions on DNA to regulate gene expression. This finding adds to our understanding of the RNA interference pathway, which plays a crucial role in silencing specific genes.
Researchers found functional mosaicism, where individual cells use different protein molecules to carry out the same function, which could explain antibiotic resistance and cancer relapse. This discovery suggests that therapeutic treatments may not be effective against all cells of the same type.
Researchers at Nanjing University have developed a novel RNAi therapy using plant-derived silencing RNAs to inhibit HBsAg expression in mice, showing potential for affordable and effective treatment of chronic hepatitis B. The approach uses methylated short interfering sequences produced by plant endogenous microRNA biogenesis machiner...
A University of Sussex mathematician has developed a chemical-free way to target parasitic nematode worms that destroy wheat crops. The breakthrough method uses biostimulants derived from naturally occurring soil bacteria to precisely kill the nematodes without harming other insects.
Researchers created an engineered human liver tissue model to investigate the effects of RNA interference, a process that can block specific genes in patient's cells. The model successfully tested RNA-based therapies for genetic disorders and infectious diseases, including malaria and liver disorders.
Researchers at UC Riverside have identified a regulatory genetic mechanism in plants that enables them to fight bacterial infections. The Argonaute protein is controlled by post-translational modification during bacterial infection, allowing plants to regulate their immune response.
Tivanisiran, an RNAi-based compound, shows promise in treating dry eye syndrome by improving ocular inflammatory parameters and reducing symptoms. The Phase III Helix study will evaluate its efficacy in over 300 patients across six countries.
Sylentis presents preclinical and clinical results for three ophthalmological compounds targeting dry eye syndrome, macular degeneration and eye allergies. The company is a leader in RNAi technology and has developed new treatments for ophthalmological and inflammatory illnesses.
Sebelipase alfa and two investigational RNAi therapeutics, givosiran and ARO-AAT, demonstrate positive findings in treating lysosomal acid lipase deficiency and acute intermittent porphyria. Long-term tolerability and improvements in liver injury markers are observed.
Scientists have developed Trim-Away, a novel method that directly and quickly depletes proteins from any cell type. This technique utilizes a protein called Trim21 to recognize antibodies directed against specific cellular proteins, allowing researchers to study their function in natural environment.
The World Health Organization has approved tivanisiran as the international nonproprietary name for SYL1001, a compound developed by Sylentis using RNA interference technology. The drug is administered in ophthalmic drops and aims to improve quality of life for patients with dry eye syndrome, a condition affecting millions worldwide.
A team of scientists has made a groundbreaking discovery about the RNA interference (RNAi) machinery, revealing that it can multiply its effect on repressing gene expression. This process is essential for cell survival and regulation of genetic activity.
Researchers are developing crops that use RNA interference to block protein translation in target pests, providing a subtle yet effective method of pest control. The technology has the potential to reduce or eliminate the need for chemical pesticides and address environmental and human toxicity concerns.
Researchers found that yellow soybeans result from naturally occurring gene silencing involving two genes, which blocks production of darker pigment's precursors. The study also identified the Argonaute5 gene responsible for saddle-patterned beans, shedding light on epistatic interactions in soybean genetics.
Sylentis has begun a Phase III clinical trial to evaluate the efficacy of SYL1001 in treating dry eye syndrome. The study aims to improve signs and symptoms of the condition, including chronic loss of lubrication and hydration on the ocular surface.
Researchers developed an RNAi-based strategy to study the link between genes and host-finding behaviors in Steinernema carpocapsae. The method successfully knocked down a gene that codes for FLP-21, inhibiting jumping and sensory perception behaviors.
A new RNAi treatment has shown significant improvement in mouse models of acute uveitis and chronic diabetic inflammation without apparent side effects. The therapy targets the receptor-associated prorenin system, involved in uveitis pathogenesis.
Human cells produce RNAi molecules in response to influenza A virus infection, but a viral protein blocks this process. The study suggests that RNAi may also be active against Ebola, Marburg, and other RNA viruses.
A team of researchers has found a long-sought-after mechanism in human cells that creates immunity to influenza A virus, which could help treat diseases caused by viruses. The discovery builds on over 20 years of research and demonstrates the antiviral function of RNAi in humans against distinct RNA viruses.
A recent study by Robert A. Martienssen's team reveals that RNA interference (RNAi) is essential for quiescent cells to maintain their state, preventing the accumulation of heterochromatin and promoting cell survival.
Researchers developed an innovative nanoplatform to deliver RNAi agents to tumor sites, suppressing growth and reducing metastasis in preclinical models of anaplastic thyroid cancer. The platform, called theranostic, brings therapy and diagnosis together in one functional nanoparticle.
Sylentis presents positive Phase II results with SYL1001 for treating ocular discomfort, achieving primary and secondary endpoints in reducing ocular pain and conjunctival hyperaemia. The trials also confirm a favorable safety profile of SYL1001.
A rare fungal pathogen, Cryptococcus deuterogatti, has lost over a dozen genes involved in RNA interference, a defense mechanism used by fungi to protect their genomes. This loss of gene silencing machinery makes the fungus more virulent and deadly to humans.
Bamosiran reduced IOP by similar magnitude across four doses, but failed to demonstrate non-inferiority to timolol in total population; showed excellent tolerability and non-inferiority at dose 1.125% in patients with baseline IOP >=25mmHg
Researchers use RNA interference to target essential genes in the beetle, resulting in a 100% mortality rate after five days of feeding. This technology offers precise protection without chemicals and foreign proteins production, making it a promising strategy for pest control.
Scientists at CSHL have devised an algorithm that improves RNA interference technology harnessing short hairpin RNAs (shRNAs) for effective gene knockdown. The new algorithm, called shERWOOD, was trained on a massive parallel assessment of shRNA potency and can predict the efficacy of new sequences.
Researchers at University of California, San Diego School of Medicine developed a way to chemically disguise RNAi drugs so they can enter cells. The technique converts disguised drug precursors into active RNAi drugs that selectively block target protein production in a cell.
Scientists have discovered a new role for Dicer in preventing genome damage caused by collisions during DNA replication. The protein helps free transcription machinery from DNA, preserving the integrity of the genome. This discovery may help explain why mutations in Dicer are associated with increased risk of cancer and aging.
UCSF researchers develop SunTag technology to precisely turn genes on and off, revolutionizing CRISPR applications. The technique has broad implications for reprogramming cells and understanding diseases.
Israeli scientists developed a method to generate single-sex populations of prawns using gene silencing technology. This can boost commercial farm productivity and control invasive species. Non-reproducing prawns could also be used as sustainable bio-control agents against diseases and pests.
Researchers at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai found that mammals do not use RNAi to fight viruses, contrary to previous studies. Instead, they use microRNAs, which are part of a different defense system based on interferons, signaling proteins made by immune cells.
A novel RNAi therapy successfully blocks production of the dysfunctional huntingtin protein, causing Huntington's disease. The treatment reduces mutant Htt levels and disease symptoms in a mouse model without causing neurotoxicity.
Researchers found that western corn rootworm beetles resistant to crop rotation are less vulnerable to RNAi treatment, surviving longer on soybean leaves. The study suggests targeting a single gene may not be the best strategy for controlling pests.