A small RNA encoded by the lin-4 gene was found in the nematode C. elegans. It was nearly complementary to segments in ________. These small RNAs were able to bind to the complementary mRNA, blocking its translation, which apparently triggers a transition to the next developmental stage.
A)the 3' untranslated region of specific mRNAs produced by the organism
B)the 5' untranslated region of specific mRNAs produced by the organism
C)the promoter of specific genes
D)the poly(A)tail of specific mRNAs
E)the 5'-methylguanosine cap of the mRNA

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The lin-4 small RNA was found to be nearly complementary to segments in the 3' untranslated region (UTR) of specific mRNAs produced by C. elegans. This small RNA was able to bind to the complementary mRNA, blocking its translation, and triggering a transition to the next developmental stage. Therefore, choice A is the best answer.

A Small RNA Encoded by the Lin-4 Gene Was Found