Vectors for RNA interference.

Introduction of double-stranded RNA into cells causes gene silencing in a sequence-specific manner, involving the coordinated activity of enzymes such as Dicer and RNA-induced silencing complex. Several groups have recently demonstrated that this phenomenon of RNA interference (RNAi) occurs in mammalian cells when small interfering (si)RNAs are used, and have developed vector-based siRNA expression systems that can induce RNAi in living cells. These vector systems use polymerase III promoters, such as U6 or H1, and are classified into two groups based on the form of expressed RNA, tandem or hairpin. This review describes the basis for, and methodology of siRNA expression vectors for mammalian cells.