Question

RNA interference (RNAi) is a method used to:

• A. Increase protein synthesis
• B. Silence the expression of specific genes
• C. Stimulate DNA replication
• D. Enhance mutation rate

Hint:

Remember that RNAi is a gene-silencing mechanism. It's like a cellular "off switch" for specific genes, preventing them from making their protein products.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question asks about the primary function or application of RNA interference (RNAi).

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
RNA interference (RNAi): This is a biological process in which RNA molecules inhibit gene expression or translation, by neutralizing targeted mRNA molecules. It is a natural mechanism for regulating gene expression in eukaryotes.
Mechanism: Small RNA molecules (like small interfering RNA - siRNA or microRNA - miRNA) bind to complementary mRNA molecules, leading to their degradation or inhibition of translation. This effectively prevents the production of the protein encoded by that mRNA.
Application: Due to its ability to selectively turn off specific genes, RNAi is a powerful tool in molecular biology research for studying gene function and has potential therapeutic applications (e.g., in treating viral infections, cancer, or genetic disorders).
Therefore, RNA interference is used to silence the expression of specific genes.
- Options (A), (C), and (D) describe processes that are not directly achieved by RNAi.

Step 4: Final Answer:
RNA interference (RNAi) is a method used to Silence the expression of specific genes.