Small interfering RNA (siRNA) and microRNA (miRNA) are both types of small RNA molecules that play significant roles in gene regulation, but they differ in their origins, mechanisms of action, and applications:
In summary, siRNAs are typically used for specific and targeted gene silencing, often in experimental settings. MiRNAs, on the other hand, have a broader role in gene regulation, affecting multiple genes and participating in various cellular processes. Both have important roles in molecular biology and potential applications in biotechnology and medicine.
Dear Prof. Sharmila Jayasena,
siRNAs and miRNAs share similarities in terms of their size and involvement in post-transcriptional gene regulation, but they have distinct origins, biogenesis pathways, functions, and applications.
Dear Dr. Sharmila Jayasena
The major difference between siRNAs and miRNAs is that the former are highly specific with only one mRNA target, whereas the latter have multiple targets. You may want to refer to the article attached below for more information.
Article siRNA Versus miRNA as therapeutics for gene silencing
Best.
Once miRNAs are produced from pri-miRNA, their production can continue as long as the pri-miRNA gene is transcribed, leading to a more sustained or chronic response due to the ongoing action of mature miRNAs on multiple targets. In contrast, siRNAs, which are often introduced exogenously, tend to have a more transient effect. This is because the finite amount of siRNA acts on a specific set of mRNAs, and as the siRNAs degrade over time, their effect diminishes more quickly.
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