Morpholino

Morpholino

A Morpholino is a type of molecule that is used to modify gene expression. It is a synthetic, non-toxic analogue of DNA or RNA that binds to complementary sequences of RNA and prevents their function. Morpholinos are used in molecular biology research, particularly in the study of gene function and the development of new therapeutic strategies.

Structure

Morpholinos are composed of morpholine rings, which are six-membered rings containing four carbon atoms, one oxygen atom, and one nitrogen atom. The morpholine rings are linked together by phosphorodiamidate groups, which are composed of a phosphorus atom bonded to two nitrogen atoms and two oxygen atoms. This structure allows morpholinos to bind to RNA sequences with high specificity and stability.

Mechanism of Action

Morpholinos function by binding to complementary sequences of RNA and preventing their function. This can occur in several ways. For example, a morpholino can bind to a messenger RNA (mRNA) molecule and prevent it from being translated into a protein. Alternatively, a morpholino can bind to a pre-mRNA molecule and alter its splicing, which can result in the production of a different protein.

Applications

Morpholinos are used in a variety of research applications. They are often used to study gene function by knocking down the expression of specific genes. This can help researchers understand what role a particular gene plays in a biological process or disease. Morpholinos are also used in the development of new therapeutic strategies. For example, they can be used to inhibit the expression of disease-causing genes, or to alter the splicing of pre-mRNA molecules in a way that produces a therapeutic effect.

See Also

• Gene Knockdown
• Molecular Biology
• Gene Therapy

References

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Morpholino

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  Morpholino Heteroduplex

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  Gene Expression

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  Blocking Translation

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  Blocking Splicing