Much of what we know about gene interactions in development has been learned using nematodes, yeast, flies, and bacteria. This is due, in part, to the relative ease of genetic manipulation of these well-characterized genomes. However, of great interest are gene interactions involving complex diseases in humans. Wang and White [(2011). Nature Methods 8(4):341–346] describe work using RNAi to examine the interactive proteome in mammalian cells. They mention that knockdown inefficiencies and off-target effects of introduced RNAi species are areas that need particular improvement if the methodology is to be fruitful.

How might one use RNAi to study developmental pathways?

Key Concepts

RNA Interference (RNAi)

RNA interference (RNAi) is a biological process in which RNA molecules inhibit gene expression or translation by neutralizing targeted mRNA molecules. This technique is widely used in genetic research to silence specific genes, allowing scientists to study the effects of gene knockdown on various biological processes, including developmental pathways.

Gene Interactions

Gene interactions refer to the ways in which different genes influence each other's expression and function. Understanding these interactions is crucial for elucidating complex biological processes, such as development, where multiple genes work together to regulate cellular functions and developmental pathways.

Off-Target Effects

Off-target effects occur when RNAi or other gene-editing technologies unintentionally silence or modify genes other than the intended target. These effects can complicate the interpretation of experimental results, making it essential to optimize RNAi techniques to minimize such unintended consequences when studying developmental pathways.