Question

Which of the following statements are correct regarding the process of $RNA$ interference?
(i) This is used to prevent the infestation of protozoans.
(ii) It takes place in some eukaryotic and all prokaryotic organisms as a method of cellular defense.
(iii) The method involves silencing of a specific $mRNA$ due to a complementary $dsRNA$ molecule.
(iv) It is a novel strategy to produce pest-resistant plants.

• A. (iii) and (iv)
• B. (i) and (iii)
• C. (i) and (ii)
• D. (ii), (iii) and (iv)

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

$RNAi$ or $RNA$ interference takes place in all eukaryotic organisms as a method of cellular defense. This method involves silencing of a specific $mRNA$. Using Agrobacterium vectors, nematode specific genes are introduced into the host plant (tobacco plant). The introduction of $DNA$ was such that it produced both sense and anti-sense $RNA$ in the host cells. These two $RNAs$ being complementary to each other formed a $dsRNA$ (double stranded RNA) that initiated $RNAi$.