mous. Just by knowing the DNA sequence of a gene, researchers can cheaply create a small molecule of RNA and send it into a cell to block protein production by the gene- functionally turning the gene off.
• By flipping a gene off and watching, we can figure out what each gene does. If we know the DNA sequence that produces diseases like cancer, maybe we can turn off the offending genes and kick cancer in its molecular crotch. These two uses of RNAi are called functional genomics and gene therapy.
• Scientists are interested in using RNAi for all sorts of things, including using RNAi to silence critical gene function in insect pests, thereby killing them. The eddy of this concept has turned into a tidal wave, and 78 presentations at the EntSoc meeting this year pertained to using RNAi in insect research and control.

• Arguably, seed companies are a driving force in this discussion. They have created a genetically modified corn plant that produces small RNAs that silences a gene in the western corn rootworm, the most costly pest of agriculture in the world. Efforts are also underway to develop RNAi sprays that can be applied to households or the environment that will silence pest genes, thereby killing them.

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