Question

What is the similarity among miRNAs, siRNAs, and piRNAs?

1) All three types originate from transposons or viruses and are found in all organisms.
2) They target and degrade the gene from which they were transcribed.
3) All three are generated from a single-stranded RNA that gets cleaved.
4) All of them can influence chromatin structure, which in turn, can influence gene expression.
5) All three associate with Piwi proteins to be able to function in RNA degradation.

Answer 1

miRNAs, siRNAs, and piRNAs are similar in that they can all influence chromatin structure and gene expression through their association with protein complexes that mediate gene silencing.

Step-by-step explanation:

The similarity among miRNAs, siRNAs, and piRNAs is that all three are small RNA molecules that play roles in post-transcriptional gene regulation or defense mechanisms against foreign genetic material. While there are differences in their origins, processing, and mechanisms of action, a common feature is that all associate with members of the Argonaute family of proteins within different types of RNA-induced silencing complexes (RISCs) to mediate gene silencing. However, not all of them are associated with Piwi proteins or originate from single-stranded RNA that gets cleaved. Therefore, the correct similarity stated in the student's options is:

4) All of them can influence chromatin structure, which in turn, can influence gene expression.