Argonaute

Argonaute is a type of protein that plays a crucial role in the process of gene regulation within cells. It is a key component of the RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC), which helps to control the expression of genes by interacting with small RNA molecules. These small RNAs can target specific messenger RNAs (mRNAs), leading to their degradation or preventing their translation into proteins. This mechanism is essential for various biological processes, including development, response to stress, and defense against viruses. Essentially, Argonaute helps cells fine-tune their activities by managing which genes are turned on or off.