RNA interference involves the silencing of a specific mRNA due to:

The correct answer is Option (3) → dsRNA

RNA interference (RNAi) is a method of cellular defence found in all eukaryotes. A double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) that is complementary to a particular mRNA binds to it. The mRNA can then no longer be translated into protein. This is silencing. It was used against the nematode Meloidogyne incognitia, which damages tobacco roots. Nematode-specific genes were introduced into the host plant, and they made dsRNA. The nematode’s own mRNA was silenced, and the parasite could not survive.

(1) dsDNA — Incorrect. The silencing is done by an RNA molecule and not by a DNA molecule.

(2) mRNA — Incorrect. The mRNA is the target that gets silenced. The silencer is the complementary dsRNA.

(3) dsRNA — Correct. It binds to the specific mRNA and prevents its translation.

(4) ssDNA — Incorrect. Single-stranded DNA plays no part in this process.

Note: A similar question was also asked in CUET (UG) 2026 on 21-05-2026 (Slot 2) and on 15-05-2026 (Slot 1), and in CUET (UG) 2023 on 31-05-2023 (Slot 3).

NCERT Extract:
Biotechnological Applications in Agriculture – …