RNA interference (RNAi) is the process in which short interfering RNA (siRNA) act to inactivate the expression of target genes. The tremendous work done by many research groups around the globe have contributed in deciphering the RNAi pathway. Understanding the role of siRNA and machinery involved in RNAi pathway led to application of this pathway as technique in therapeutic applications and crop improvement. The specificity of siRNA in interacting the target sequence helped to understand the complex pathways and role of major genes involved. Here we have reviewed the journey involved in understanding RNAi pathway and in vitro use of dsRNA to induce RNAi machinery against the target gene. It explains the advances achieved in vector construction from simple RNA construct to high-throughput ihpRNA constructs for higher efficiency in target-specific gene silencing for crop improvement.
Part of the book: Genetic Transformation in Crops