AQA A-Level Biology: RNA Interference (8.2.2) Lesson

This engaging lesson explains how siRNA and miRNA prevent the translation of mRNA into proteins. As the final part of a 4-lesson series covering point 8.2.2 of the AQA A-level Biology specification, it consolidates prior knowledge while introducing new concepts.

Key Features:

• Building on Prior Knowledge:

  • Begins with a review of DNA methylation and histone acetylation to link previously studied mechanisms of gene expression control.

• siRNA Mechanism:

  • Introduces small interfering RNA (siRNA) through a quick quiz, explaining its role as a double-stranded, non-coding RNA molecule that degrades target mRNA by cutting it into fragments.
  • Explores potential applications of siRNA in treating conditions like HIV and cystic fibrosis, with exam-style questions reinforcing understanding and linking to earlier topics.

• miRNA Mechanism:

  • Explains how microRNA (miRNA) differs from siRNA in mammalian cells, focusing on its production and method of action in gene silencing.

This fully-resourced lesson combines clear explanations, prior knowledge integration, and application tasks to ensure students grasp RNA interference as a critical regulatory process.

• Exam Board: AQA
• Subject: Biology
• Level: A-Level
• Resource Type: Lesson
• Year: 2025
• Year Group/s: Year 12 and Year 13

This resource was created by GJHeducation