Which outcome is associated with the action of miRNA?

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, non-coding RNA molecules that play a crucial role in gene regulation. One of their primary functions is to bind to complementary sequences on target messenger RNA (mRNA) transcripts, typically in the 3' untranslated region (3' UTR). This binding can lead to a decrease in the stability of the mRNA molecules, which ultimately results in reduced protein production.

When miRNAs bind to their target mRNAs, they can either promote degradation of the mRNA or inhibit its translation. The degradation of mRNA makes it less stable, which shortens its lifespan in the cell and decreases the amount of protein that can be synthesized from that mRNA. This regulatory mechanism is essential for controlling gene expression at post-transcriptional levels and is involved in various biological processes, such as development, differentiation, and responses to stress.

The other options are less accurate in the context of miRNA function. For instance, increasing translation rates and facilitating ribosome assembly would typically associate with mechanisms that enhance protein synthesis rather than inhibit it. Promoting transcription activity relates more to other elements like transcription factors, not miRNAs, which act post-transcriptionally. Thus, the effect of miRNA action aligns precisely with the idea