RNA interference tools for human cells
For a long period, the lack of tools to efficiently generate stable loss-of-function phenotypes hindered mammalian genetic approaches to study gene function. In the past, we have developed a novel vector system, named pSUPER, which directs the inhibition of gene expression through RNA interference (RNAi). With it we demonstrated persistent suppression of gene expression that allows the analysis of loss-of-function phenotypes that develop over longer periods of time.
Screening
Recently, a large collection of viral pSUPER vectors for the knockdown of up to 8000 genes in human cells was assembled in our institute. These days, we use library to perform genetic screens in order to identify and characterize new players in DNA-damage pathways and novel human tumor suppressors genes.
