Synthesis and gene silencing properties of siRNAs containing terminal amide linkages.

ABSTRACT: The active components of the RNAi are 21 nucleotides long dsRNAs containing a 2 nucleotide overhang at the 3' end, carrying 5'-phosphate and 3'-hydroxyl groups (siRNAs). Structural analysis revealed that the siRNA is functionally bound at both ends to RISC. Terminal modifications are considered with interest as the introduction of chemical moieties interferes with the 3' overhang recognition by the PAZ domain and the 5'-phosphate recognition by the MID and PIWI domains of RISC. Herein, we report the synthesis of modified siRNAs containing terminal amide linkages by introducing hydroxyethylglycine PNA (hegPNA) moieties at 5', and at 3' positions and on both terminals. Results of gene silencing studies highlight that some of these modifications are compatible with the RNAi machinery and mark

SUBMITTER: Gaglione M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3984766 | biostudies-literature | 2014

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature