RNA silencing: small RNAs as ubiquitous regulators of gene expression

Curr Opin Plant Biol. 2002 Oct;5(5):444-51. doi: 10.1016/s1369-5266(02)00291-1.

Abstract

'RNA silencing' is the suppression of gene expression through nucleotide sequence-specific interactions that are mediated by RNA. Initially identified as an immune system that is targeted against transposons and viruses, RNA silencing is emerging as a fundamental regulatory process that is likely to affect many layers of endogenous gene expression in most, if not all, eukaryotes.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Caenorhabditis elegans / genetics
  • Gene Silencing*
  • Humans
  • MicroRNAs / genetics
  • MicroRNAs / metabolism*
  • RNA Processing, Post-Transcriptional
  • RNA, Small Interfering / genetics
  • RNA, Small Interfering / metabolism*
  • Signal Transduction
  • Substrate Specificity
  • Transcription, Genetic / genetics*

Substances

  • MicroRNAs
  • RNA, Small Interfering