Question

RNA interference involves:

• A. Synthesis of cDNA and RNA using reverse transcriptase
• B. Silencing of specific mRNA due to complementary RNA
• C. Interference of RNA in synthesis of DNA
• D. Synthesis of mRNA from DNA

Hint:

Remember: RNAi is a method of {Cellular Defense} in eukaryotes. It is triggered by dsRNA and results in the degradation of homologous mRNA (Post-Transcriptional Gene Silencing).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding RNA Interference (RNAi):
RNA interference (RNAi) is a biological process in which RNA molecules inhibit gene expression or translation. It is a natural defense mechanism in eukaryotic organisms.
Step 2: Mechanism:
RNAi involves the silencing of a specific mRNA molecule. This silencing is achieved through the formation of a double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) molecule. The complementary RNA strand binds to the target mRNA, preventing its translation into protein. This process is effectively "silencing" the gene.
Step 3: Evaluating Options:
(A) Synthesis of cDNA uses reverse transcriptase, which is not the primary mechanism of RNAi.
(B) Silencing of specific mRNA due to complementary RNA correctly describes the core mechanism.
(C) Interference of RNA in DNA synthesis is incorrect.
(D) Synthesis of mRNA from DNA is transcription, not RNAi.
Step 4: Final Answer:
The correct option is (B).