抄録
RNA interference was discovered only five years ago and is now recognized as an important system for the control of gene expression. More recent studies of the nature of RNAi have opened many possibilities for its control, and its exploitation promises to be a valuable experimental tool as it allows investigators to study phenotypic effects of modifying levels of expression of specific genes, either alone or in combination. Before RNAi was discovered, such studies were either not possible or were exceedingly difficult using human or mammalian cells of otherwise identical genetic backgrounds. We have studied phenotypic effects on chromosomal radiosensitivity and cell killing following the knock-down of DNAPKcs after transfection of normal human cells with small interfering RNA (siRNA). We have also studied effects and interactions on other proteins. Results of these and other experiments in the overall context of chromosomal radiosensitivity, as well as various applications of this technology for general studies in DNA damage processing, genome stability, mutagenesis, and cancer will be reviewed. [J Radiat Res 44:372 (2003)]
