antisense

[ an-tee-sens, an-tahy‑ ]

adjective

1. of or relating to a gene that is derived from RNA or complementary DNA, is inserted in reverse orientation into a strand of DNA, and is used in genetic engineering to regulate genetic expression of a trait.

antisense

/ ăn′tē-sĕns′,ăn′tī- /

1. Relating to a nucleotide sequence that is complementary to a sequence of messenger RNA. When antisense DNA or RNA is added to a cell, it binds to a specific messenger RNA molecule and inactivates it.

Word History and Origins

Origin of antisense¹

First recorded in 1985–90

Example Sentences

The announcement came a week after drugmakers Biogen and Ionis Pharmaceuticals said they are terminating development of BIIB105, an antisense oligonucleotide for ALS that showed disappointing results in an early-stage clinical study.

From Science Magazine

The treatment uses therapeutic molecules called antisense oligonucleotides, or ASOs, that can alter the expression of genes through interactions with RNA, which creates proteins.

From Science Daily

In the new study, the researchers describe how this can be achieved using the so-called "antisense" method.

From Science Daily

"We were pleasantly surprised by the results because we were not sure if it would work. Even though RNA interference and antisense operate in a similar way, the active enzyme complexes are completely different. However, we were able to show that the RNA sites determined using our method are actually accessible for both processes," says Behrens.

From Science Daily

Ultimately, antisense might be used in commercial operations to prevent maturation without genetically modifying the fish.

From Science Magazine