Pre-miR miRNA Precursor Molecules are small, chemically modified double-stranded RNA molecules designed to mimic endogenous mature miRNAs. These ready-to-use miRNA mimics, which are similar to, but not identical to siRNAs, can be introduced into cells using transfection or electroporation parameters similar to those used for siRNAs. They enable detailed study of miRNA biological effects via gain-of-function experiments.
Positive and negative control Pre-miR miRNA Precursors or the Pre-miR Precursor Starter Kit can be used to optimize transfection of Pre-miR miRNA Precursors. Pre-miR miRNA Precursor Molecules have been carefully designed and modified to ensure that the correct strand, representing the desired mature miRNA, is taken up into the RNA-induced silencing-like complex responsible for miRNA activity. In contrast to miRNA expression vectors, these synthetic molecules can be used in dose response studies due to their introduction directly into the cell by transfection or electroporation. Thanks to their small size, they are easier to transfect than vectors, and can be delivered using conditions identical to those used for siRNAs.
Use of Pre-miR miRNA Precursors enable miRNA functional analysis by up-regulation of miRNA activity. Specific experimental designs include: miRNA target site identification and validation, screening for miRNAs that regulate the expression of a gene, and screening for miRNAs that affect a cellular process. miRNA-related cellular functions identified through use of Pre-miR miRNA Precursors can be further investigated using Anti-miR miRNA Inhibitors, which enable loss-of-function experiments through reduction of miRNA activity.
NOTE: Pre-miR miRNA Precursors are not hairpin constructs and should not be confused with pre-miRNAs.
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