does DNA serve as a template for just DNA or mRNA as well?
Go here:
http://www.stanford.edu/group/hopes/treatmts/pbuildup/h2.html
and scroll down to:
How can RNAi be used to treat HD?
DNA serves as a template for both DNA replication and the synthesis of mRNA (messenger RNA).
During DNA replication, the DNA molecule unwinds, and each strand serves as a template for the synthesis of a new complementary strand, resulting in two identical DNA molecules. This process ensures that the genetic information is copied and passed on accurately during cell division.
However, DNA does not directly code for proteins. Instead, the genetic information encoded in DNA is transcribed into mRNA molecules. This process, known as transcription, involves the synthesis of mRNA molecules that are complementary to the DNA template. The mRNA molecules then serve as templates for protein synthesis during a process called translation.
Now, regarding the specific question about RNA interference (RNAi) and its use in treating Huntington's disease (HD), please note that the provided URL leads to a website that might not exist anymore or may have been moved. However, I can still explain how RNAi can be used to treat HD.
RNAi is a mechanism that naturally occurs in cells to regulate gene expression. In the context of disease treatment, scientists harness this mechanism to selectively silence specific disease-causing genes. In the case of Huntington's disease, there is a mutant version of the huntingtin gene (HTT) that produces an abnormal protein. This protein accumulates and causes damage to brain cells, leading to the symptoms of HD.
By using RNAi, scientists can design small RNA molecules called small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) that are complementary to the mutant HTT mRNA. These siRNAs can enter cells and bind to the mutant HTT mRNA. Once bound, the siRNAs trigger the degradation of the mutant HTT mRNA, preventing the synthesis of the abnormal protein. As a result, the accumulation of the harmful protein is reduced, potentially slowing down the progression of Huntington's disease.
To find more information about the specific treatment approaches using RNAi for HD, it would be helpful to search for up-to-date scientific papers, articles, or reputable sources that discuss ongoing research or clinical trials in this field.