shRNA
Science & Engineering abbreviation · Genetics
| Stands for | Short hairpin RNA |
|---|---|
| Categories | Science & Engineering |
shRNA stands for Short hairpin RNA, a genetics abbreviation.
Artificial RNA that folds back on itself into a hairpin and is processed by the cell into an siRNA, silencing a target gene. Because shRNAs can be encoded in DNA and delivered by viral vectors, they provide long-lasting gene knockdown in cells and animals.
Example: Lentiviral shRNA libraries were used to screen for genes required for tumor growth.
Usage notes
Unlike synthetic siRNAs, which fade after a few days, shRNA is produced continuously from an integrated vector. Genome-wide shRNA screens were widely used before CRISPR knockout screens largely replaced them. Off-target effects remain a known limitation of RNA-interference tools.
Related abbreviations
More genetics abbreviations
- QTL – Quantitative trait locus
- RFLP – Restriction fragment length polymorphism
- RNA-seq – RNA sequencing
- RNAi – RNA interference
- scRNA-seq – Single-cell RNA sequencing
- sgRNA – Single guide RNA
- siRNA – Small interfering RNA
- SNP – Single-nucleotide polymorphism
- snRNA – Small nuclear RNA
- SNV – Single-nucleotide variant
- ssDNA – Single-stranded DNA
- STR – Short tandem repeat