Argonaute (AGO)

Argonaute (AGO) is a protein that plays a critical role in gene regulation within cells. It functions as part of a complex called the RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC), which uses small RNA molecules, like microRNAs or small interfering RNAs, as guides. These guides help AGO identify and bind to specific messenger RNAs (mRNAs), the molecules that carry genetic instructions for protein production. By binding to mRNAs, AGO can prevent their translation into proteins or lead to their degradation, thereby controlling gene expression and maintaining cellular balance.