Final answer:
RNA interference (RNAi) can be utilized to block the translation of mRNA and silence a cancer-related gene. It involves small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) or microRNAs (miRNAs) binding to mRNA, preventing translation and protein synthesis.
Step-by-step explanation:
The technology that can be utilized to block the translation of mRNA and silence a cancer-related gene is RNA interference (RNAi).
RNA interference is a process where small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) or microRNAs (miRNAs) bind to mRNA molecules, preventing translation and protein synthesis. This technique is used to interfere with the expression of specific genes, such as cancer-related genes, and is being explored as a potential therapeutic treatment.
For example, in antisense therapy, a nucleic acid sequence complementary to the mRNA of the target gene is introduced into the cell. This complementary sequence hybridizes with the mRNA, preventing its translation and reducing the production of the target protein.