RNA interference (RNAi) is a biological process in which RNA molecules inhibit gene expression or translation by neutralizing targeted mRNA molecules. This mechanism plays a critical role in regulating gene expression and defending against viral infections and transposons in eukaryotic cells.

RNA Interference (RNAi)

RNA interference (RNAi) is a biological process in which RNA molecules inhibit gene expression or translation, effectively silencing targeted gene activity. This mechanism is crucial for regulating gene expression, defending against viral infections, and has potential applications in gene therapy and research.

RNA Interference

A biological process is a series of events or molecular functions that occur in living organisms to sustain life, such as metabolism, cell division, or photosynthesis. These processes are essential for growth, development, reproduction, and maintaining homeostasis in an organism.

Biological Process

RNA molecules

Gene expression is the process by which information from a gene is used to synthesize a functional gene product, typically proteins, which ultimately determine cellular function and phenotype. This process is tightly regulated at multiple levels, including transcription, RNA processing, translation, and post-translational modifications, to ensure proper cellular function and response to environmental cues.

Gene Expression

Translation is the process of converting text or speech from one language into another, ensuring that the meaning and context are preserved. It requires a deep understanding of both the source and target languages, as well as cultural nuances and idiomatic expressions.

Translation

Targeted mRNA molecules

Regulating gene expression

Viral infections occur when viruses invade the body's cells and replicate, often causing disease by damaging or killing host cells and triggering immune responses. They can spread through various means, such as direct contact, airborne transmission, or vectors, and are typically managed by vaccines, antiviral drugs, and supportive care.

Viral Infections

Transposons, also known as 'jumping genes', are sequences of DNA that can change their position within the genome, potentially creating or reversing mutations and altering the cell's genetic identity. They play a significant role in genome evolution and are used as tools in genetic research and biotechnology to study gene function and regulation.

Transposons

Eukaryotic cells are complex cellular structures characterized by the presence of a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, distinguishing them from prokaryotic cells. They are the building blocks of multicellular organisms, including plants, animals, and fungi, and are essential for advanced cellular functions and specialization.

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