Adenoviral vectors expressing siRNAs for discovery and validation of gene function.

RNA interference is a powerful tool for studying gene function and for drug target discovery in diverse organisms and cell types. In mammalian systems, small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), or DNA plasmids expressing these siRNAs, have been used to down-modulate gene expression. However, inefficient transfection protocols, in particular, for primary cell types, have hampered the use of these tools in disease-relevant cellular assays.

Arrayed adenoviral expression libraries for functional screening.

With the publication of the sequence of the human genome, we are challenged to identify the functions of an estimated 70,000 human genes and the much larger number of proteins encoded by these genes. Of particular interest is the identification of gene products that play a role in human disease pathways, as these proteins include potential new targets that may lead to improved therapeutic strategies. This requires the direct measurement of gene function on a genomic scale in cell-based, functional assays.

Comparison of RNA and cDNA transfection methods for rescue of infectious bursal disease virus.

Specific alterations in the genetic material of RNA viruses rely on a technique known as reverse genetics. Transfection of cells with the altered generic material is a critical step of this procedure. In this report we have compared RNA and cDNA transfection methods for the efficiency of transient protein expression and rescue of (recombinant) infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV).