MicroBiology

The DNA molecule in any living organism is generally comprised of 2 strands; one is the sense strand and the other being the antisense strand. In a double DNA strand, one of the strand codes for RNA, which is later on translated in to proteins. This particular strand of DNA is known as Antisense DNA strand. On the other hand, the strand that does not take part in the coding of the RNA is referred to as the sense strand. The antisense DNA is also called as the non-coding DNA. The antisense DNA strand is solely responsible for carrying the information required to make the proteins. It performs this function by getting bound to the corresponding mRNA (messenger RNA). These strands are, no doubt the exact replica of one another, but even then, only the antisense DNA strand has the information to make the proteins. The sense strand does not feature this functionality.

Antisense DNA is a technology that down regulates or restrains the production of a targeted protein by either using the antisense DNA molecules or the antisense RNA molecules. The antisense sequence is complimentary to the targeted nucleotide sequence existing in the cells. The method that depends on the targeted mRNA is referred to as the antisense strategy. This antisense strategy uses the capability of the hundred percent complimentary RNA or DNA sequence for hybridizing or interlocking with the targeted mRNA. This thus inhibits the translation of the targeted protein.

A single strand of the DNA molecule gets bounded to the complimentary base sequence in a specific mRNA molecule and this thus prevents the synthesis of a protein that is encoded by the mRNA. The antisense DNA has the capacity of blocking the expression of a specific gene, hence it can be used a therapeutic weapon to fight certain diseases. These antisense molecules interrelate with the complimentary strands of the nucleic acids and thus, play an important role in altering the expression of the genes.

This antisense DNA method is being used successfully for blocking the expression of a particular gene in vivo in the central nervous system. Studies in the last few years have shown that when the antisense DNA is directly administered in the brain, it can modify different types of behaviors. Thus, it is said that the antisense DNA method can be used as an influential tool for the study of casual relationships among the molecular processes in the brain as well as its effect on the behavior of a person.

DNA strand, being double stranded, the strand that is complimentary to the antisense sequence is referred to as the non-transcribed strand and contains the similar sense sequence alike the mRNA transcript. Several forms of the antisense are developed and classified broadly in to the enzyme-based antisense. These antisense nucleic acid molecules are used in experiments to get them bound to the mRNA and thus, prevent the expression of particular genes. The antisense therapies are developing rapidly in the United States. The FDA (Food and DRUG Administration) has given approval to the Vitravene and the phosphorothioate antisense Oligo for remedial use in human beings.