Question

RNA interference is utilized to prevent nematode infestation in tobacco plants. By which vector are nematode specific genes introduced?

• A. Bacteriophage
• B. Retrovirus
• C. Escherichia coli
• D. Agrobacterium

Hint:

Agrobacterium tumefaciens is the most widely used vector in plant biotechnology for genetic transformation.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding RNA interference (RNAi).
RNA interference is a biological process where RNA molecules inhibit gene expression by neutralizing targeted mRNA molecules. It is used in biotechnology to silence specific genes.
Step 2: Application in plants.
To protect tobacco plants from nematode infestation, double-stranded RNA specific to nematode genes is introduced. This triggers RNAi in the nematode, silencing essential genes and preventing infestation.
Step 3: Role of vector.
The dsRNA is introduced into plants through Agrobacterium tumefaciens, which is commonly used as a vector for plant genetic engineering.
Step 4: Analyzing options.
(A) Bacteriophage: Incorrect — Works in bacteria, not in plants.
(B) Retrovirus: Incorrect — Used in animals, not in plants.
(C) Escherichia coli: Incorrect — A bacterial host, not a vector for plant transformation.
(D) Agrobacterium: Correct — This vector is widely used to transfer foreign genes into plant genomes.
Step 5: Conclusion.
The nematode-specific genes are introduced via Agrobacterium.