RNAi
A) is the form of mRNA that initiates translation in most pathogenic bacteria.
B) uses short pieces of double-stranded RNA to direct the degradation of specific RNA transcripts.
C) is a mechanism of genetic regulation found in all prokaryotes.
D) is any chemical that inhibits transcription.
E) uses short pieces of single-stranded RNA to direct the degradation of specific RNA transcripts

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

RNAi (RNA interference) uses short pieces of single-stranded RNA, known as small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), to direct the degradation of specific RNA transcripts. This process is important in post-transcriptional gene regulation in eukaryotic cells. Option A is incorrect as mRNA is not responsible for initiating translation in bacteria, the ribosome binding site does that. Option B correctly describes RNAi. Option C is incorrect as RNAi only exists in eukaryotes. Option D is incorrect as RNAi works after transcription has occurred and does not affect the process of transcription itself.