Question

researchers have developed a drug that disrupts gene expression in a parasitic species of fungi. the drug functions by preventing the complementary binding of trna with an mrna molecule. this drug most likely targets the choose 1 answer: a ribosome b nucleus c smooth endoplasmic reticulum (er) d golgi complex

Explanation:

To solve this, we analyze each option:

• Option A (ribosome): Ribosomes are the site of translation, where tRNA binds to mRNA (via complementary base - pairing of anticodons on tRNA and codons on mRNA) to synthesize proteins. Preventing tRNA - mRNA binding would disrupt translation, which occurs at ribosomes.
• Option B (nucleus): The nucleus is involved in processes like DNA replication and transcription (synthesis of mRNA from DNA). tRNA - mRNA binding (translation) does not occur in the nucleus.
• Option C (smooth endoplasmic reticulum - ER): The smooth ER is mainly involved in lipid synthesis, detoxification, and storage. It has no role in tRNA - mRNA binding or translation.
• Option D (Golgi complex): The Golgi complex is responsible for modifying, sorting, and packaging proteins and lipids. It is not involved in the binding of tRNA and mRNA.

So, the drug, by preventing tRNA - mRNA binding, most likely targets the ribosome.

Answer:

A. ribosome