I am looking to understand the mechanisms by which siRNA works to inhibit RNA production versus microRNA does anyone know the average time these molecules stay active in the body? My preconception is that siRNA can stay active for extended periods of time (upward of 6+ months) is this true for microRNA as well?
6 months for siRNA seems wildly optimistic. In cell culture, effects are observed between 2 and 4 days, with greatly diminished effects in longer time points.
https://www.sigmaaldrich.com/life-science/functional-genomics-and-rnai/sirna/learning-center/mission-sup-reg0.html
miRNAs are generally produced by alternative splicing of larger ncRNA fragments, and MAY persist for longer than the siRNA durations, however the effects are transitory. Cells generally need miRNA for modulatory events, not long term persistent regulation.
It is also related to target accessibility, to the biological activity and to the concentration of siRNA... 10.1093/nar/gkg649
Hi Marco
I agree with the already posted opinions that keeping a short RNA inside the body for 6 months is highly optimistic. Without any chemical modification, and injected in the circulation, RNAs are tipically delivered to the liver where they are modified or degraded. Half life inside the human body is within the range of few hours.
Of course that you can complex your RNA with lipids (lipoplexes), nanoparticles, or bind it covalently to chemicals as cholesterol or PEG for increased stability.
No differences in clearance will be expected in naked RNA molecules when comparing siRNAs or miRNAs.
Best luck
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