Antisense rna

Antisense RNA (asRNA) is a type of non-coding RNA that is complementary to messenger RNA (mRNA). It is involved in various biological processes, including the regulation of gene expression, RNA interference, and the defense against viral infections.

Overview

Antisense RNA is a single-stranded RNA molecule that is complementary to a messenger RNA (mRNA) molecule transcribed within a cell. It can bind to the mRNA molecule to form a double-stranded RNA structure, preventing the mRNA from being translated into protein. This process is known as antisense therapy and is used in research and treatment of diseases.

Function

The primary function of antisense RNA is to regulate gene expression. It does this by binding to the mRNA molecules and preventing them from being translated into proteins. This can either be through the degradation of the mRNA molecule or by blocking the ribosome from attaching to the mRNA molecule.

Antisense RNA also plays a role in RNA interference, a process where RNA molecules inhibit gene expression. This is done by the antisense RNA binding to the mRNA molecule and causing it to degrade, thus preventing the gene from being expressed.

In addition, antisense RNA is involved in the defense against viral infections. Some viruses produce antisense RNA to prevent the host's cells from producing proteins that would fight off the infection.

Antisense Therapy

Antisense therapy is a form of treatment that uses antisense RNA to silence specific genes. This is done by introducing antisense RNA molecules that are complementary to the mRNA of the target gene. The antisense RNA binds to the mRNA, preventing it from being translated into protein.

Antisense therapy has been used in the treatment of various diseases, including cancer, genetic disorders, and viral infections. However, the use of antisense therapy is still in its early stages and more research is needed to fully understand its potential.

See Also

• RNA interference
• Gene expression
• Antisense therapy

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