Using morpholinos to control gene expression

Curr Protoc Nucleic Acid Chem. 2007 Jan;Chapter 4(1):Unit 4.30. doi: 10.1002/0471142700.nc0430s27.

Abstract

Morpholino oligonucleotides are stable, uncharged, water-soluble molecules used to block complementary sequences of RNA, preventing processing, read-through, or protein binding at those sites. Morpholinos are typically used to block translation of mRNA and to block splicing of pre-mRNA, though they can block other interactions between biological macromolecules and RNA. Morpholinos are effective, specific, and lack non-antisense effects. They work in any cell that transcribes and translates RNA, but must be delivered into the nuclear/cytosolic compartment to be effective. Morpholinos form stable base pairs with complementary nucleic acid sequences but apparently do not bind to proteins to a significant extent. They are not recognized by any proteins and do not undergo protein-mediated catalysis; nor do they mediate RNA cleavage by RNase H or the RISC complex. This work focuses on techniques and background for using Morpholinos.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Gene Expression Regulation / drug effects*
  • Hydrogen Bonding
  • Morpholines / pharmacology*
  • Temperature
  • Up-Regulation

Substances

  • Morpholines