METHODS FOR DIRECTING DNA METHYLATION IN MAMMALIAN CELLS USING HOMOLOGOUS, SHORT DOUBLE STRANDED RNAS

摘要

The invention provides methods for methylating a gene of interest in a cell. The methods include exposing a mammalian cell to an siRNA molecule which is specific for a gene of interest in the cell. The methods also include introducing into the cell DNA sequences encoding a sense strand and an antisense strand of an siRNA which is specific for the gene of interest. The siRNA directs methylation of the gene of interest.