Plant Gene Silencing: Methods and Protocols

This second edition provides a comprehensive review of gene silencing methodologies and applications, including virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS), miRNA identification, DNA interference, host-induced gene silencing, artificial miRNAs, and high throughput RNAi. It is written in the format of the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series and aims to further the understanding of functional relevance of target genes using gene silencing methods and technologies in commercial plant varieties.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 328 pages
Publication date: 26 March 2023
Publisher: Springer-Verlag New York Inc.

This second edition provides a comprehensive review of various gene silencing methodologies and applications. Chapters detail a historical overview of gene silencing mechanisms in plants, vectors, and strategies available for plant gene silencing, practical applications of gene silencing, bioinformatics tools, and other resources. In addition to these review chapters, this book includes methodology for virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS), understanding plant stress responses using VIGS, miRNA identification, DNA interference, host-induced gene silencing, artificial miRNAs for gene silencing, and high throughput RNAi. Written in the format of the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series, each chapter includes an introduction to the topic, lists necessary materials and reagents, includes tips on troubleshooting and known pitfalls, and step-by-step, readily reproducible protocols.

Authoritative and cutting-edge, Plant Gene Silencing: Methods and Protocols, Second Edition aims to further the understanding of functional relevance of target genes using gene silencing methods and technologies in commercial plant varieties.

Gene silencing is a powerful tool for studying gene function and has numerous applications in agriculture, medicine, and biotechnology. In this second edition, we will explore the various methods and protocols used for gene silencing in plants.

One of the most commonly used methods for gene silencing is RNA interference (RNAi). RNAi is a natural process in which small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) bind to specific mRNA molecules and inhibit their translation, leading to the downregulation of target genes. There are several different types of RNAi, including microRNA (miRNA) and small interfering RNA (siRNA), each with its own unique characteristics and applications.

Another method for gene silencing is virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS). VIGS involves the introduction of a virus that carries a gene silencing construct into a plant cell. The virus infects the plant cells and transmits the gene silencing construct to the plant's genome, leading to the downregulation of target genes. VIGS is a highly efficient method for gene silencing and has been used to study a wide range of plant processes, including disease resistance, flowering, and stress responses.

In addition to these methods, there are several other strategies for gene silencing, including DNA interference (DI), host-induced gene silencing (HIGS), and artificial miRNAs (amiRNAs). DI involves the introduction of double-stranded DNA into a plant cell, which binds to and inhibits the expression of target genes. HIGS involves the activation of a plant's defense response, which leads to the downregulation of target genes. AMiRNAs are synthetic RNAs that mimic the function of natural miRNAs and can be used to target specific genes for silencing.

Each of these methods has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of method depends on the specific research question and the target plant species. In this second edition, we will provide detailed protocols for each of these methods, as well as examples of their applications in plant biology and agriculture.

In conclusion, gene silencing is a powerful tool for studying gene function and has numerous applications in agriculture, medicine, and biotechnology. This second edition provides a comprehensive review of various gene silencing methodologies and applications, and includes detailed protocols for each of these methods. By understanding the principles and techniques of gene silencing, researchers can gain a deeper understanding of plant biology and develop new strategies for improving crop productivity and disease resistance.

Weight: 647g
Dimension: 254 x 178 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781071618776
Edition number: 2nd ed. 2022