Question

RNA interference is essential for the

• A. cell proliferation
• B. cell defence
• C. cell differentiation
• D. micropropagation

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

cell defence

Answer 2

RNAi is a regulatory mechanism for an estimated 30% of all protein-coding genes(in mammals). It helps to protect cells against certain viruses by targeting viral RNA for destruction. It helps to silence potentially disruptive transposons in the genome by destroying RNA copies arising from transposon replication. RNAi is a precise and efficient tool for knockout of specific genes when studying gene function in experimental organisms. It also has potential for new forms of targeted gene therapy.