Virally-encoded RNAs as substrates, inhibitors and delivery vehicles for RNAi

摘要

The present invention provides methods for identifying druggable targets in assays that feature compositions, cells and/or organisms having structured viral non-coding RNAs (svRNAs) and an RNA interference (RNAi) pathway. Methods for identifying antiviral agents and creating vaccines are also featured. The invention further provides methods for inhibiting RNAi involving svRNAs or inhibitory derivatives thereof. The invention also provides compositions for delivering siRNA and miRNA molecules derived from svRNA loci and methods of use thereof. Therapeutic methods are also featured.