Question

Given below are two statements: one is labelled as Assertion (A) and the other is labelled as Reason (R).
Assertion (A): One of the major limitations of genetic engineering is the difficulty in transferring polygenic traits in plants.
Reason (R): Cybridization generates novel combinations of nuclear and/or cytoplasmic genomes, which is not possible through sexual hybridization.
In the light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

• A. Both (A) and (R) are correct and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)
• B. Both (A) and (R) are correct but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A)
• C. (A) is correct but (R) is not correct
• D. (A) is not correct but (R) is correct

Hint:

Polygenic = Many Genes (Too heavy for a single transgenic "truck").
Cybrid = Custom Mix (Organelles from Dad's side and Mom's side mixed together).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Concept: This question compares the limitations of recombinant DNA technology (genetic engineering) with the unique advantages of cellular-level fusion (cybridization).

Step 1: Evaluating the Assertion.
Assertion (A) is correct. Most genetic engineering focuses on "monogenic" traits (controlled by one gene, like Bt-toxin). "Polygenic" traits (like yield or drought tolerance) involve dozens of genes spread across different chromosomes, making them extremely difficult to transfer using current transgenic methods.

Step 2: Evaluating the Reason.
Reason (R) is also correct. Cybridization allows for the mixing of cytoplasmic organelles (like mitochondria from parent A and chloroplasts from parent B) with a nucleus from parent A. In sexual breeding, cytoplasm is usually inherited only from the mother, so these specific "mixed" combinations are biologically impossible through natural means.

Step 3: Determining the Relationship.
While both statements are true, they are discussing two different things. The reason why cybridization is unique (Reason R) does not explain why genetic engineering struggles with polygenic traits (Assertion A). One is a limitation of a technology, and the other is a feature of a cellular process.