Functional Genomics and RNAi

Practice flashcards based on lecture notes covering Functional Genomics and RNA interference.

What is Functional Genomics?

Genome scale determination of gene function including biochemical, physiological, cell biology, and developmental aspects.

What is the primary method used in Functional Genomics for gene function determination?

RNA interference (RNAi), which helps to silence specific genes.

What is Forward Genetic Screening?

A method that involves random mutagenesis of the whole genome to identify strains with stable aberrant phenotypes.

What is Reverse Genetic Screening?

A method used to determine the phenotype of a gene of interest through targeted gene knock-out, often using homologous recombination.

How does RNA Interference (RNAi) function?

It is a post-transcriptional gene silencing mechanism mediated by double-stranded RNA (dsRNA).

Who were awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2006 and for what discovery?

Andrew Z. Fire and Craig C. Mello for their discovery of RNA interference.

What organism was RNAi first discovered in?

Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans).

What percentage of genes can be silenced using the RNAi feeding library in C. elegans?

Approximately 86% of the genome.

What is RISC in RNAi?

RNA-Induced Silencing Complex, which unwinds dsRNA and cuts the target mRNA.

What genetic feature characterizes the rrf-3 strain in RNAi studies?

It enhances sensitivity to dsRNA, particularly in the nervous system.

What role does Dicer play in the RNA interference mechanism?

It processes long dsRNA into smaller, functional RNA fragments that can associate with RISC.

What types of studies were conducted on C. elegans regarding obesity?

Studies identified genes that regulate fat storage, linking them to potential therapies for obesity.

What are some delivery methods for RNAi therapies in mammalian cells?

Transfection techniques, electroporation, and using lipid nanoparticles.

What are the limitations of gene silencing with siRNAs?

Transient response, transduction problems, non-renewable nature, and off-target effects.

What new type of RNAi therapy is Patisiran used for?

Hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTRv).

What is the significance of the Nobel Prize-winning discovery in the context of functional genomics?

It allows for the rapid study of gene functions and their involvement in disease processes.

How many genes were identified with phenotypes in RNAi screens conducted in C. elegans?

1,722 genes were identified with mutant phenotypes.