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RNA interference, often abbreviated as RNAi, is a biological process fundamental to gene regulation in which small fragments of RNA molecules inhibit gene expression or translation, thereby playing a crucial role in natural selection. It occurs when double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) is introduced into an organism, triggering the sequence-specific degradation of messenger RNA (mRNA). This process allows for precise control over which genes are expressed and when, contributing to the development and maintenance of an organism's phenotype. Within the context of genetics and science, RNAi serves as a key mechanism by which genetic diversity is generated and maintained, driving evolution through natural selection. As such, it represents a critical link between genetic variation and the emergence of novel traits, underscoring its importance in our understanding of life's complexity and diversity.