Final answer:
The process known as RNA silencing and post-transcriptional gene silencing is RNA interference (RNAi), which involves the use of small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) to prevent mRNA from being translated into proteins. Option d) RNA interference (RNAi) is the correct answer.
Step-by-step explanation:
The process also known as RNA silencing and post-transcriptional gene silencing is RNA interference (RNAi). RNAi is a biological process in which RNA molecules inhibit gene expression or translation, by neutralizing targeted mRNA molecules.
This mechanism is used by cells to regulate the amount of protein being synthesized and to defend against viruses. During RNAi, molecules like small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) bind to mRNA, preventing the mRNA from being used as a template to make proteins, which effectively silences the gene.
The steps involved in post-transcriptional control include control of RNA splicing, RNA stability, and RNA shuttling. All these are processes that take place after RNA has been transcribed from DNA but before it is translated into proteins. Post-transcriptional modifications are critical for the creation of mature RNA molecules that can be translated into functional proteins. Without these modifications and controls, proteins would not be synthesized correctly, affecting gene expression in the cell.
Therefore, the correct option for the question 'Which of the following process is also known as RNA silencing and post-transcriptional gene silencing?' is d) RNA interference (RNAi).