Question

Which of the following is(are) plant protoplast fusogenic agent(s)?

• A. Sodium nitrate
• B. Polyvinyl alcohol
• C. Polyethylene glycol
• D. Bromoxynil

Hint:

PEG is the standard fusogen for plant protoplast fusion.
Fusion methods can be chemical (PEG) or physical (electrofusion).
Always distinguish between protoplast fusion in plants and bacteria—different fusogens may be used.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A, B, C

Step 1: Protoplast fusion in plants requires fusogenic agents that help in bringing two protoplast membranes together and fusing them.
Step 2: Polyethylene glycol (PEG) is the most widely used chemical fusogen for inducing protoplast fusion. It works by dehydrating the cell membranes and promoting their fusion.
Step 3: Sodium nitrate is used for bacterial protoplast fusion in some cases but is not commonly used for plant protoplasts. Polyvinyl alcohol does not act as a fusogen, and bromoxynil is an herbicide.
\(\therefore\) The correct fusogenic agent for plant protoplasts is (C) Polyethylene glycol.