Question

In RNAi, genes are silenced using:

• A. ds DNA
• B. ss DNA
• C. ss RNA
• D. ds RNA

Answer 1

The correct option is D ds RNA

RNA interference -definition:
RNA interference (RNAi) or silencing of RNA is a method used toprevent the expression of a gene.


RNA interference -method:
RNAi involves the silencing of a specific mRNA due to acomplementary dsRNA molecule that binds to and prevents translation of mRNA.

• A double stranded RNA is introduced in the cell followed by its cleavage to form ssRNA.
• ssRNA then binds to complementary regions of targeted mRNA.
• This mRNA is targeted for degradation as it cannot be processed by ribosomes hence translation of target mRNA is prevented.

Final answer: ds RNA

Summary:
RNAi :
RNAi involves the silencing of a specific mRNA by a complementary dsRNA molecule that binds to and prevents translation of mRNA (silencing). So the respective protein is no longer synthesized.

Final answer: ds RNA.