RNA interference involves:
(A) Silencing of a specific mRNA due to a complementary dsRNA molecule
(B) Silencing of a specific mRNA due to a complementary dsDNA molecule
(C) Source of complementary RNA could be from an infection by viruses having DNA genomes
(D) Prevention of translation of mRNA
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → (A) and (D) only
RNA interference (RNAi) is a way in which eukaryotic cells defend themselves. A double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) that is complementary to a particular mRNA binds to it. The mRNA can then no longer be translated, so it is silenced. In biotechnology it is used to protect crops, for example against a nematode that attacks tobacco roots.
(A) Silencing of a specific mRNA due to a complementary dsRNA molecule — Correct. This is the process.
(B) Silencing of a specific mRNA due to a complementary dsDNA molecule — Incorrect. The silencing molecule is complementary RNA, not DNA.
(C) Source of complementary RNA could be from an infection by viruses having DNA genomes — Incorrect. The source could be viruses with RNA genomes, or mobile genetic elements (transposons) that replicate through an RNA stage.
(D) Prevention of translation of mRNA — Correct. The bound dsRNA stops the mRNA from being translated into protein.
NCERT Extract:
Biotechnological Applications in Agriculture – …
