RNA interference (RNAi) is a naturally occurring process that suppresses certain gene activity in living cells. This relatively new biological discovery is just starting to make headway in the biopharmaceutical arena. Bio-IT World Magazine was about to publish a feature article on the subject and looked to Dynamic Diagrams for a visual explanation that would enhance the comprehensiveness of the story.

The Bio-IT World audience is for the most part knowledgeable in biological and pharmaceutical procedures, but there are also readers with backgrounds in general science and information technology. We needed to give these readers a capsule definition of RNAi, while also demonstrating its therapeutic potential.

One promising RNAi therapy is its use to inhibit the gene expression that causes excess protein production in the eye. This syndrome, known as the “wet” form of macular degeneration, is a leading cause of age-related vision loss around the world.

Supplied with the pre-press article that featured this example, we conducted further research of scientific journals to fully understand the emerging technology and intended uses.

In our compact visualization, we outlined the principles of the RNAi process and explained the treatment that could trigger a healing RNAi response. Collaborating with Bio-IT World to fact check our presentation, we ensured that the visual explanation was accurate and appropriately geared for its intended audiences.