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RNA Interference

RNA Interference

RNA interference (RNAi) is a process in which a small non-coding RNA molecule blocks the post-transcriptional expression of a gene by binding to its messenger RNA (mRNA) and preventing the protein from being translated.
This process occurs naturally in cells, often through the activity of genomically-encoded microRNAs. Researchers can take advantage of this mechanism by introducing synthetic RNAs to deactivate specific genes for research or therapeutic purposes. For example, RNAi could be used...

RNA Interference

RNA Interference

RNA interference (RNAi) is a process in which a small non-coding RNA molecule blocks the post-transcriptional expression of a gene by binding to its messenger RNA (mRNA) and preventing the protein from being translated.
This process occurs naturally in cells, often through the activity of genomically-encoded microRNAs. Researchers can take advantage of this mechanism by introducing synthetic RNAs to deactivate specific genes for research or therapeutic purposes. For example, RNAi could be used...

Types of RNA

Types of RNA

Overview
Three main types of RNA are involved in protein synthesis: messenger RNA (mRNA), transfer RNA (tRNA), and ribosomal RNA (rRNA). These RNAs perform diverse functions and can be broadly classified as protein-coding or non-coding RNA. Non-coding RNAs play important roles in the regulation of gene expression in response to developmental and environmental changes. Non-coding RNAs in prokaryotes can be manipulated to develop more effective antibacterial drugs for human or animal use.
RNA...

Types of RNA

Types of RNA

Three main types of RNA are involved in protein synthesis: messenger RNA (mRNA), transfer RNA (tRNA), and ribosomal RNA (rRNA). These RNAs perform diverse functions and can be broadly classified as protein-coding or non-coding RNA. Non-coding RNAs play important roles in regulating gene expression in response to developmental and environmental changes. Non-coding RNAs in prokaryotes can be manipulated to develop more effective antibacterial drugs for human or animal use.
RNA Performs Diverse...

Types of RNA

Types of RNA

Overview
Three main types of RNA are involved in protein synthesis: messenger RNA (mRNA), transfer RNA (tRNA), and ribosomal RNA (rRNA). These RNAs perform diverse functions and can be broadly classified as protein-coding or non-coding RNA. Non-coding RNAs play important roles in the regulation of gene expression in response to developmental and environmental changes. Non-coding RNAs in prokaryotes can be manipulated to develop more effective antibacterial drugs for human or animal use.
RNA...

Types of RNA

Types of RNA

Three main types of RNA are involved in protein synthesis: messenger RNA (mRNA), transfer RNA (tRNA), and ribosomal RNA (rRNA). These RNAs perform diverse functions and can be broadly classified as protein-coding or non-coding RNA. Non-coding RNAs play important roles in regulating gene expression in response to developmental and environmental changes. Non-coding RNAs in prokaryotes can be manipulated to develop more effective antibacterial drugs for human or animal use.
RNA Performs Diverse...

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jul 18, 2026

RNA Interference in Aquatic Beetles as a Powerful Tool for Manipulating Gene Expression at Specific Developmental Time Points

RNA Interference in Aquatic Beetles as a Powerful Tool for Manipulating Gene Expression at Specific Developmental Time Points

Published on: May 29, 2020

Another role for RNA: a messenger across generations.

Alyson Ashe¹, Emma Whitelaw

¹Department of Population Studies and Human Genetics, Queensland Institute of Medical Research, Royal Brisbane Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland 4006, Australia.

Trends in Genetics : TIG

|November 28, 2006

Summary

Paramutation, a form of transgenerational epigenetic inheritance, has been observed in mice. This study provides strong evidence that RNA molecules play a crucial role in this inherited trait.

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Last Updated: Jul 18, 2026

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Area of Science:

Genetics
Epigenetics
Molecular Biology

Background:

DNA is traditionally viewed as the sole determinant of inherited traits.
Transgenerational epigenetic inheritance, where traits are passed down without altering DNA sequence, is gaining attention.
Paramutation, a key example of epigenetic inheritance, has been well-documented in plants but less so in other species.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate the occurrence of paramutation in mammals, specifically mice.
To explore the molecular mechanisms underlying paramutation, with a focus on the potential role of RNA.

Main Methods:

The study involved experiments with mice to demonstrate paramutation.
Molecular analyses were conducted to identify the components involved in the inheritance process.

Main Results:

Clear evidence of paramutation was established in mice.
Strong indications suggest that RNA molecules are involved in mediating this epigenetic inheritance.

Conclusions:

Paramutation occurs in mice, expanding the known range of this epigenetic phenomenon.
RNA molecules are implicated as key players in the molecular basis of transgenerational epigenetic inheritance in mammals.