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RNA interference (RNAi) is revolutionizing biological research. RNAi can specifically nullify the action of a single gene, and single wayward genes cause many diseases. Because small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) that cause RNAi can be produced easily and inexpensively, using RNAi in vivo as a treatment is an exciting concept; however, several important obstacles remain:
Most cells do not take up siRNAs readily from the environment around them.
Circulating free siRNAs are degraded easily.
If siRNAs enter nondiseased (nontargeted) cells, they theoretically could cause mischief.
To be effective, sufficient numbers of siRNAs must find their way to diseased cells deep within the body.
A multi-institutional team, based at Harvard Medical School, has deve…