04d0c4d7__characterisation_of_risk_loci__0
[1] Silencing of gene expression using plasmid-encoded short hairpin RNAs (shRNAs) or double stranded RNA (dsRNAs) [2] Cell lines: Manipulation of expression levels of associated genes to monitor its effects. [3] Easier and faster than homologous recombination. Lentiviral/adenoviral delivery generates high transduction efficiencies and can be done transiently or stably. Results may depend on the effectiveness of shRNA. While there are clear advantages of using stable cell lines they may adapt to the knock down by acquiring additional mutations or the stable knock down might be incompatible with viability. Thus, both approaches should be exploited. [4] There are now several commercially available sources of validated shRNAs, developed by the RNAi Consortium, cloned in lentiviral vectors that can be packaged by 293FT into replication-defective lentivirus. Thoughtful controls should be applied to rule out off-target effects. References and resources: [166] [0] 
RNA interference
WikiGenes - Principles for the post-GWAS functional characterisation of risk loci
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