How RNAi Works

Sequence-specific gene silencing

Once activated, RISC can recognize and then bind to the target mRNA.

Once bound, subunits of RISC cleave the mRNA.

Other proteins further degrade the mRNA, thus preventing protein production.

Active R-I-S-C with proteins and single strand of R-N-A bind to target m-R-N-A shown as a longer single strand. Target m-R-N-A cleavage causes sequence-specific gene silencing, shown as a break in the longer strand and missing the section where the shorter R-N-A of active R-I-S-C was bound. — Active RISC binds to target mRNA. Target mRNA cleavage causes sequence-specific gene silencing.