Destructive Messages

RNA interference could help researchers curb everything from cancer to Crohn’s disease.

By Rachael Moeller Gorman // Infographic by Flying Chilli // Winter 2008

FLYING CHILLI

RNA does DNA’s bidding, ordering the creation of proteins that usually serve beneficial functions in the body. To combat disease-causing DNA, researchers are attempting to destroy its messages before they result in harmful proteins.

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Shoot the Messenger

Injected RNA, which can turn off genes and halt production of harmful proteins, could profoundly affect the way we treat disease.

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