Question

Identify the correct sequence of steps in RNA-interference (RNAi) process to develop nematode resistant plants.
i) Silencing of specific mRNA of the nematode
ii) Formation of sense and antisense RNA
iii) dsRNA formation
iv) Introducing nematode-specific genes into plant

• A. i, ii, iv, iii
• B. iii, ii, i, iv
• C. iv, ii, iii, i
• D. iv, i, ii, iii

Answer 1

The correct option is C iv, ii, iii, i

To develop nematode-resistant plants, the sequence of steps for RNA interference would be as follows:

1. Introducing nematode specific genes into the plant.

2. Formation of sense and antisense RNA.

3. dsRNA formation.

4. Silencing of specific mRNA of the nematode.

• RNA interference is the process by which the expression of a gene or a set of genes is inhibited by RNA molecules that interfere with the activity of the target RNA molecules. This can be achieved through double-stranded RNA.
• To provide resistance against nematodes, the plant should have the genes for the nematode. Once the genes for nematodes are introduced in the plant sense and antisense RNA molecules are created.
• An enzyme known as dicer cuts the dsRNA into small fragments known as small interfering RNA (SIRNA). The siRNA helps in degrading the target RNA, thereby inhibiting the process of translation.

So, the correct option is 'C'.