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HomeHomework Helpmolecular-biologyRNA Interference Basics

RNA Interference Basics

RNA interference (RNAi) is a cellular mechanism that regulates gene expression through small RNA molecules, such as small interfering RNA (siRNA) and microRNA (miRNA), which bind to complementary messenger RNA (mRNA) sequences, leading to mRNA degradation or inhibition of translation. This process plays a crucial role in controlling gene activity and maintaining cellular homeostasis.

intermediate
3 hours
Molecular Biology
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RNA interference (RNAi) is a vital cellular process that regulates gene expression through small RNA molecules, specifically siRNA and miRNA. siRNA primarily degrades target mRNA, while miRNA inhibits translation, both contributing to gene silencing. This mechanism is crucial for maintaining cellula...

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Key Terms

RNA
Ribonucleic acid, a molecule essential for coding, decoding, regulation, and expression of genes.

Example: mRNA carries genetic information from DNA to the ribosome.

mRNA
Messenger RNA, a type of RNA that conveys genetic information from DNA to the ribosome.

Example: mRNA is translated into proteins during protein synthesis.

siRNA
Small interfering RNA, a class of double-stranded RNA that interferes with the expression of specific genes.

Example: siRNA can be used to silence genes in research.

miRNA
MicroRNA, a small non-coding RNA molecule that regulates gene expression by binding to mRNA.

Example: miRNA can prevent translation of target mRNAs.

Gene Regulation
The process of turning genes on or off, affecting how genes are expressed.

Example: RNAi is a key mechanism in gene regulation.

Degradation
The breakdown of molecules, such as mRNA, which can prevent protein synthesis.

Example: siRNA leads to the degradation of target mRNA.

Related Topics

Gene Therapy
The use of genes to treat or prevent disease, often utilizing RNAi techniques.
advanced
CRISPR Technology
A revolutionary gene-editing tool that can be used alongside RNAi for precise genetic modifications.
advanced
Molecular Genetics
The study of the structure and function of genes at a molecular level, including RNAi mechanisms.
intermediate

Key Concepts

siRNAmiRNAgene regulationmRNA degradation