RNA Interference Technology: From Basic Science to Drug Development

Description

RNA Interference (RNAi) technology has rapidly become one of the key methods used in functional genomics. RNAi is used to block the expression of genes and create phenotypes that can potentially yield clues about the function of these genes. In the postgenomic era, the elucidation of the physiological function of genes has become the rate-limiting step in the quest to develop 'gene-based drugs' and RNAi could potentially play a pivotal role in the validation of such novel drugs. In this cutting-edge overview, the basic concepts of RNAi biology are discussed, as well as the current and potential applications. Leading experts from both academia and industry have contributed to this invaluable reference for graduate students, post-docs and researchers from academia wanting to initiate RNAi research in their own labs, as well as for those working in research and development in biotech and pharmaceutical companies who need to understand this emerging technology.

Krishnarao Appasani is the Founder of GeneExpression Systems, a gene discovery company focusing on functional genomics in cancer research.

'This book is very timely. The chapters on the basics of RNAi, siRNA and miRNAs are an excellent summary of the recent origins of this topic and the various sections dealing with RNAi technology provided comprehensive background material. I am sure that, even with the rapid progress in RNAi , this book will be useful for both newcomers to the field wishing to get an overview and for experienced researchers looking for a summary of published information.' David Baulcombe, The Sainsbury Laboratory, Norwich UK 'Only six years ago Fire and Mello discovered RNAi, as a funny effect in little worms. Now the whole world wants to know about it. In this book Krishnarao Appasani got an alll-star crowd of specialists to introduce RNAi: its history, biology, application in genomics research, and possible therapeutic use. Warmly recommended.' Ronald Plasterk, Hubrecht Laboratories, Utrecht, the Netherlands 'A comprehensive treatise on RNA interference has long been needed. That need has now been filled with this book, which places RNAi and its potential squarely in the context of the post human genome era. The successful juxtaposition of the many aspects of RNAi biology and technology should serve to stimulate creative thought across the many diverse disciplines affected by the RNAi revolution.' Ronald K. Scheule, Ph.D., Genzyme Corporation 'This new book is very comprehensive, in many ways picking up where Hannon's RNAi manual leaves off. A good companion to Hannon.' Frank Slack Ph.D., Yale University 'This extensive collection of timely articles brings us up to date on the current research on RNAi, its science and applications. It is a must read to learn about current status of the art. Its 35 contributions from leading scientists are subdivided into seven sections to facilitate access to the corresponding articles, and cover every aspect of the subject. This is a rapidly advancing field and it is useful for the newcomer both in academia and in industry to obtain a panoramic view and put the current literature in perspective.' Roberto Weinmann, Bristol-Myers Squibb 'This book provides a window to the exciting new RNA interference revolution with special emphasis on applications for biotechnology. It will provide up-to-date background for academic and industry researchers seeking to make use of this powerful research tool.' Judy Leiberman, Harvard Medical School and The CBR Institute for Biomedical Research '... this most impressive book is not only scientifically informative but also visually appealing. I would have no hesitation recommending this book to anyone interested in RNAi research, particularly newcomers to this daunting area. I am sure this book will become a standard reference point for laboratories working in this area.' Biologist 'This book provides an excellent, comprehensive description of the current state of the art, in a clear and readily absorbable format, suitable for a wide scientific audience.' Society for General Microbiology