Question:

Which one of the following small RNAs in plants DO NOT regulate gene expression by cleavage of mRNAs?

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Heterochromatin = Closed/DNA level; so hcsiRNAs work on DNA, not mRNA.
Updated On: May 14, 2026
  • MicroRNAs (miRNAs)
  • Short interfering RNA (siRNA)
  • Heterochromatin siRNAs (hcsiRNAs)
  • Trans-acting siRNAs (tasiRNAs)
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation


Step 1: Concept

Small RNAs regulate genes through Post-Transcriptional Gene Silencing (PTGS) or Transcriptional Gene Silencing (TGS).

Step 2: Meaning

PTGS involves the direct degradation (cleavage) or translational inhibition of mRNA in the cytoplasm.

Step 3: Analysis

miRNAs, siRNAs, and tasiRNAs primarily target mRNA for cleavage. hcsiRNAs, however, are involved in the RNA-directed DNA methylation (RdDM) pathway, which functions in the nucleus to modify chromatin and silence transcription at the DNA level.

Step 4: Conclusion

hcsiRNAs regulate gene expression through epigenetic modifications of DNA/chromatin rather than mRNA cleavage. Final Answer: (C)
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