NOVEL SIRNA GENE LIBRARIES AND METHODS FOR THEIR PRODUCTION AND USE

摘要

The present invention relates to methods and compositions for the elucidation of gene function and the identification of novel genes. Specifically, the present invention relates to methods and compositions for improved functional genomic screening, functional inactivation of specific essential or non-essential genes, and identification of genes that are modulated in response to specific stimuli or encode recognizable phenotypic traits. In particular, the compositions of the present invention include, but are not limited to, expression cassettes comprising a novel dual promoter transcription system, that utilizes modified promoters, preferably containing complementary termination sequences, positioned across a coding sequence and in opposite orientation to each other. In addition, the present invention includes libraries comprising the expression cassettes of the invention, including vectors for transforming cells, such as replication-deficient retroviral vectors. The invention also includes methods for the production and screening of dsRNA/siRNA libraries, as well as therapeutic uses for the siRNAs expressed in accordance with the invention.