Question

Which of the following processes destroys RNA molecules if they have a sequence complementary to an introduced double-stranded RNA?

a. RNA obstruction
b. RNA blocking
c. RNA interference
d. RNA disposal

Answer 1

RNA interference (RNAi) is the process that destroys RNA molecules with sequences complementary to introduced double-stranded RNA, using components like DICER, siRNAs or miRNAs, and the RISC complex. The answer is option C.

Step-by-step explanation:

The process that destroys RNA molecules if they have a sequence complementary to an introduced double-stranded RNA is known as RNA interference (RNAi). This biological process involves several key molecules and enzymes, including small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) or microRNAs (miRNAs), the enzyme DICER, and the RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC). This process helps protect cells from viral invasion and plays a role in gene silencing.

When double-stranded RNA is present in a cell, DICER cleaves it into short fragments; then, one strand of each fragment is incorporated into the RISC. The siRNA or miRNA in the RISC binds to any complementary mRNA, leading to its degradation or preventing its translation, effectively silencing the gene.