Correct Answer: C

Rationale: RNA interference (RNAi) is a biological process that involves the silencing of gene expression by inhibiting the translation of mRNA or by degrading mRNA molecules. This mechanism plays a crucial role in regulating gene expression and can be used to selectively silence specific genes. By interfering with the expression of specific genes, RNAi can downregulate protein production from those genes. Therefore, option C, 'Inhibits the expression of specific genes,' is the correct role of RNA interference in silencing genes. Options A, B, and D are incorrect because RNA interference does not increase protein production, promote gene mutation, or repair damaged DNA; its primary function is to inhibit gene expression by degrading or interfering with mRNA.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Lymph nodes primarily function to filter lymph and fight infection. They contain immune cells that help to remove pathogens and foreign particles from the lymph fluid as it passes through the nodes. This process helps to activate the immune response and defend the body against infections. Choice A is incorrect as lymph nodes do not store excess lymph fluid; they filter lymph. Choice B is incorrect as the production of red blood cells primarily occurs in the bone marrow, not in lymph nodes. Choice D is incorrect as lymph nodes do not transport lymph to the heart; they filter and process lymph to remove impurities and activate the immune response.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Melatonin. Melatonin is the hormone responsible for regulating sleep-wake cycles, also known as the circadian rhythm. Its production is influenced by light exposure, with levels increasing in the evening in response to darkness, signaling the body that it is time to sleep. Choice B, cortisol, is a stress hormone and does not directly regulate sleep-wake cycles. Choice C, estrogen, is a sex hormone and is not primarily involved in regulating sleep. Choice D, glucagon, is a hormone that increases blood glucose levels and is not related to sleep-wake cycles.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Estrogen is the hormone responsible for the characteristic changes experienced during puberty in females, such as breast development and menstruation. Estrogen plays a crucial role in the development of secondary sexual characteristics and the regulation of the menstrual cycle. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) are primarily involved in the regulation of the menstrual cycle and ovulation. Progesterone, on the other hand, is important for preparing the uterus for pregnancy and maintaining pregnancy, but it is not the primary hormone responsible for the changes seen during puberty in females.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is the pancreas. The hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar levels is insulin, which is produced by the pancreas. The pituitary gland produces various hormones that regulate other endocrine glands, the thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate metabolism, and the adrenal glands produce hormones involved in the stress response. Therefore, choices A, B, and D are incorrect in the context of regulating blood sugar levels.