Developments in effective application of small inhibitory RNA (siRNA) technology in mammalian cells

siRNA technology provides a useful means of achieving reduction of gene expression in mammalian cells. In this article we focus on recent advances that make siRNA technology more practical as a tool for target validation. New advances include better use of sequence databases to assist in the design of reagents and improved diligence in the evaluation of target and off-target effects using appropriate controls and gene expression microarrays. The new developments will allow progress in the evaluation of individual targets and target combinations and will enable comprehensive efforts to define mammalian cell processes.