Question

Which of the following statements are correct regarding the process of RNA interference?

I. This method involves silencing of a specific mRNA due to a complementary dsRNA molecule
II. It does not take place in eukaryotic organisms as a method of cellular defense
III. The source of complementary RNA could be from an infection by viruses with RNA genomes or mobile genetic elements (transposons) that replicate via an RNA intermediate
IV. It is a novel strategy to produce pest resistant plants

• A. II, III and IV
• B. I, III and IV
• C. I, II and III
• D. I, II and IV

Answer 1

The correct option is B I, III and IV

RNA interference is a mechanism of gene regulation which is induced by silencing of mRNA in a sequence-specific manner.

Gene regulation happens when mRNA is bound by a complementary strand of the RNA which is produced in the host cells. Due to this reason, translation of mRNA into proteins is hindered. Viruses having RNA genomes or transposons which are the mobile genetic elements which have the capability to replicate via an RNA intermediate act as the source of these complementary RNAs.

It takes place in all eukaryotic organisms.

Two types of silencing RNA molecules are central to RNA interference:
- siRNA (Small interfering RNA): Defense against viruses and transposable elements
- miRNA (microRNA): Regulation of eukaryotic gene expression

Recombinant DNA technology is also using RNA interference to modify the organisms by antisense technology. It inhibits the expression of a target gene in a sequence-specific manner.