Inhibition of cell proliferation; induction of apoptosis; increased DNA double-strand breaks by inhibiting DNA repair via RAD51 downregulation; suppression of CRC tumor growth without adverse effects on normal tissues; downregulation of in situ levels of Ki-67, Bcl-2 and RAD51; increased cleaved caspase-3 and Bax in tumor tissues. The gene discussed is RAD51; the disease is colorectal carcinoma.