RNA interference in honeybees : off-target effects caused by dsRNA

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Authors

Jarosch, Antje
Moritz, Robin F.A.

Journal Title

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Publisher

Springer

Abstract

RNA interference involves the targeted knockdown of mRNA triggered by complementary dsRNA molecules applied to an experimental organism. Although this technique has been successfully used in honeybees (Apis mellifera), it remains unclear whether the application of dsRNA leads to unintended expression knockdown in unspecific, non-targeted genes. Therefore, we studied the gene expression of four non-target genes coding for proteins that are involved in different physiological processes after treatment with three dsRNAs in two abdominal tissues. We found unspecific gene downregulation depending on both the dsRNA used and the different tissues. Hence, RNAi experiments in the honeybee require rigid controls and carefully selected dsRNA sequences to avoid misinterpretation of RNAi-derived phenotypes.

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Keywords

RNA interference, Off-target effects, Real-time PCR, Honeybee (Apis mellifera)

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Citation

Jarosch, A. & Moritz, R.F.A. RNA interference in honeybees : off-target effects caused by dsRNA. Apidologie (2012) 43: 128-138. doi:10.1007/s13592-011-0092-y.