Which of the following statements correctly describes how RNA interference (RNAi) silences selected genes?
A) Synthetic double-stranded RNA molecules stop transcription from occurring.
B) Synthetic double-stranded RNA molecules stop DNA replication from occurring.
C) Synthetic double-stranded RNA molecules trigger the breakdown of a gene's messenger RNA.
D) Synthetic double-stranded RNA molecules stop mitosis from occurring.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

RNA interference (RNAi) silences genes by triggering the degradation of messenger RNA (mRNA), which prevents protein synthesis. Synthetic double-stranded RNA molecules complementary to the target mRNA are introduced into the cell, leading to the formation of a RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC) that cleaves the mRNA and targets it for degradation.

Which of the Following Statements Correctly Describes How RNA Interference