Functional Genomics and RNAi

A collection of flashcards designed to help students understand the key concepts, applications, and implications of functional genomics and RNA interference based on their lecture notes.

What is Functional Genomics?

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

What are Forward Genetic Screens?

Random mutagenesis of the whole genome to screen for strains with stable aberrant phenotypes.

What is Reverse Genetic Screening?

A technique to determine the phenotype of a gene of interest by targeted gene knockout and other methods.

What is RNA interference (RNAi)?

A post-transcriptional gene silencing mechanism discovered in C. elegans, mediated by double-stranded RNA.

Who won the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2006?

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

How does the RNAi mechanism initiate?

It begins with processing by an enzyme called Dicer and involves the association with target mRNA.

Why is the rrf-3 mutant significant in RNAi studies?

It enhances sensitivity to double-stranded RNA, improving RNAi efficacy particularly in the nervous system.

What percentage of the C. elegans genome was silenced using RNAi?

Approximately 86% of the genome was silenced in various studies.

What are the common phenotypes identified through RNAi in C. elegans?

Common phenotypes include Embryonic lethal (Emb) and Uncoordinated movement (Unc).

What is the purpose of RNAi as a therapeutic tool?

To silence disease-related genes and potentially treat conditions like hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis.

What are the limitations of gene silencing with siRNAs?

Transient response, off-target effects, degradation stability issues, and costs of chemical synthesis.

What role do lipid nanoparticles play in RNAi therapeutics?

They aid in the delivery of siRNAs to target organs while minimizing immune responses.