RNA interference in parasitic nematodes of animals: a reality check?

Knox, D. P., Geldhof, P., Visser, A. and Britton, C. (2007) RNA interference in parasitic nematodes of animals: a reality check? Trends in Parasitology, 23(3), pp. 105-107. (doi: 10.1016/j.pt.2007.01.007) (PMID:17276139)

Full text not currently available from Enlighten.

Abstract

RNA interference (RNAi) is widely used in Caenorhabditis elegans to identify gene function and has been adapted as a high-throughput screening method to identify genes involved in essential processes. The technique has been applied to parasitic nematodes with variable success and we believe that inconsistent outcomes preclude its use as a robust screen with which to identify potential control targets. In this article, key issues that require clarification are discussed, including the mode of delivery of double-stranded RNA to the parasite, the developmental stage targeted and, perhaps of most importance, whether the RNAi pathway (as defined by studies in C. elegans) is fully functional in some parasitic nematodes.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Geldhof, Prof Peter and Britton, Professor Collette
Authors: Knox, D. P., Geldhof, P., Visser, A., and Britton, C.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences
College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Infection & Immunity
Journal Name:Trends in Parasitology
ISSN:1471-4922
ISSN (Online):1471-5007
Published Online:02 February 2007

University Staff: Request a correction | Enlighten Editors: Update this record

Project CodeAward NoProject NamePrincipal InvestigatorFunder's NameFunder RefLead Dept
351421Adaptation of caenorhabditis elegans technology to identification and expression of parasite target genesCollette BrittonBiotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC)S20387Infection Immunity and Inflammation Life Sciences