Modulation of gene expression by siRNA in hematopoietic cells.
RNA interference (RNAi) has been established as a powerful tool for identifying gene function in many biological processes and can be used for genome-wide functional genetic screens in mammalian cells. For such purposes, expression cassettes encoding RNAi triggers can be efficiently introduced into the host cell genome utilizing viral vector systems, resulting in long-term silencing of target gene expression. Transient gene silencing can also be induced by exogenous delivery of suitable RNAi triggers to target cells. However, similarly to other reverse genetic tools, there are technical challenges and limitations associated with RNAi, some of which are specific to hematopoietic cells. In this review we discuss the rational design of effective RNAi triggers, different approaches for their efficient delivery, and the value of RNAi both as a potential therapeutic strategy and as a tool for functional genomics and target validation in hematopoietic cells.
Scherr
Michaela
M
Hannover Medical School, Center for Internal Medicine, Department of Hematology and Oncology, Carl-Neuberg Strasse 1, D-30623 Hannover, Germany. M.Scherr@t-online.de
Eder
Matthias
M
D000818:Animals; D015195:Drug Design; D005786:Gene Expression Regulation / Q000187:drug effects*; D006412:Hematopoietic Stem Cells / Q000187:drug effects / Q000378:metabolism*; D006801:Humans; D008208:Lymphatic System / Q000166:cytology / Q000187:drug effects; D022423:Myeloid Cells / Q000187:drug effects; D034622:RNA Interference; D034741:RNA, Small Interfering / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000494:pharmacology*
D034741:RNA, Small Interfering