Detection of siRNA-Mediated Gene Modulation Using SmartFlare™ Detection Probes

Modulation of gene expression using techniques such as RNAi has become a fundamental tool in the study of gene function and biological pathways. To determine the efficiency of gene knockdown using most widely used detection methods, cell samples must be sacrificed by lysis or permeabilization and fixation. In addition to sample destruction, another disadvantage of these techniques is that they yield results that only reflect the average expression of the gene in the collected cell population. One nondestructive option is the use of transfected reporter constructs. However, although the cells remain alive, the technique cannot reveal endogenous gene expression and can have negative effects on cell health. An ideal RNA detection agent provides a noninvasive approach to interrogating gene expression while enabling sorting of live cells that can be separated and directly used for downstream studies. In this application note read how SmartFlare™ RNA detection probes provide efficient, non-destructive detection of siRNA mediated gene knockdown on a cell-by-cell basis.