Suppressing a Mutant Phenotype by RNAi

C. elegans are a great genetic model because they have a simple anatomy, a fast reproduction time, stereotyped behavior, and are easy to genetically manipulate (1). Since Brenner’s studies, other scientists have worked with the worm to almost completely finish a physical map of the worm, to get data that supports 90% of its genes, and to study the form and behavior of the worm as well as the genome sequence to better understand the evolution process (2). RNAi is a great tool for studying genes interactions, like epistasis. Scientists can use RNAi to “turn off” a gene in an organism. By turning off the gene and seeing the effects, scientists can determine which gene(s) causes which trait. This technology was first used in the C. elegans. Since more than 50% of the genes in C. elegans are homologous to human genes.... Read on