RNAinduced

RNAinduced refers to cellular processes in which RNA molecules guide regulatory outcomes, often affecting gene expression or chromatin state. The most prominent example is RNA interference (RNAi), where double-stranded RNA triggers sequence-specific silencing of homologous transcripts.

In many organisms, small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) and microRNAs (miRNAs) are produced by Dicer and loaded onto Argonaute proteins to form the RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC). The RISC uses the guide RNA to find complementary mRNA targets, leading to mRNA cleavage or translational repression, and a decrease in protein production.

RNAinduced regulation also occurs in the nucleus. The RNA-induced transcriptional silencing (RITS) pathway uses small RNAs to direct chromatin-modifying enzymes to corresponding DNA sequences, reinforcing heterochromatin and reducing transcription. Conversely, RNA-induced transcriptional activation (RNAa) can enhance transcription at gene promoters through RNA guides and chromatin modifiers. In some species, RNA-dependent RNA polymerases amplify silencing signals, extending regulatory effects.

Key components across these systems include Dicer, Argonaute family proteins, RNA helicases, and chromatin-modifying complexes. The term RNAinduced describes a broad set of RNA-guided regulatory outcomes rather than a single pathway, and the specifics can vary by organism and context.

Applications of RNAinduced mechanisms span functional genomics research, therapeutic gene silencing, and the study of epigenetic regulation. Challenges include off-target effects, delivery methods, and potential immune responses.