Study of hepatocytes using RNA interference

摘要

RNA interference (RNAi) is the process of sequence-specific gene silencing, initiated by small double-stranded RNA homologous in sequence to the target gene. Various factors involved in the regulation of hepatocyte function have been identified using RNAi, indicating that RNAi is a useful strategy for characterization. There has been some success in treating experimental liver dysfunction using RNAi in several model systems, suggesting a promising new therapeutic strategy. A number of groups have also demonstrated that RNAi can interfere with hepatitis C virus and hepatitis B virus gene expression and replication in several model systems, suggesting a new approach for the treatment of these viral diseases. This review summarizes studies of hepatocytes using RNAi.