Reversible control of RNA interference by siRNAzos.

In this study, we report the reversible control of RNA interference using siRNAzos, a class of siRNAs that contain azobenzene. Herein, we demonstrate that it is possible to take an active siRNAzo, and inactivate it for up to 24 hours. We also demonstrate reversibility of these siRNAzos within cell culture. For example, active siRNAzos can be inactivated in cell culture with ultraviolet light, and then reactivated with visible light. In addition, we also show that siRNAzos can be activated and inactivated towards the endogenous target gene, BCL2.