Final answer:
RNA-seq involves sequencing mRNA to determine b) gene expression levels and is a key technique in the field of transcriptomics, which is used to study the collection of mRNA produced by cells.
Step-by-step explanation:
RNA-seq refers to a type of study in which mRNA is sequenced to determine the b) gene expression levels for a particular cell type or organism.
The science of studying the entire collection of mRNA molecules produced by cells is called transcriptomics.
By sequencing mRNA, researchers can monitor differences in gene expression patterns between cells and understand how those patterns govern cellular function.
Each gene is transcribed to produce an mRNA molecule, which is then translated to synthesize proteins, a process central to gene expression.
This sequencing allows for a detailed view of which genes are being expressed and at what levels, providing insights into the functional elements of the genome and the molecular constituents of cells and tissues.