Question 1

Cryopreservation for germplasm exchange — Which materials have been successfully cryopreserved with ~90% tissue survival and ~10% whole-plant regeneration, and are widely used for international germplasm exchange?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Cryopreservation enables long-term, pathogen-safe exchange and conservation of elite germplasm. Two commonly used explant types are meristem tips and embryos, which tolerate cryogenic protocols and can regenerate plants following thawing. Given Data / Assumptions: Reported outcomes include high tissue survival (~90%) and modest yet practical plant regeneration (~10%). Virus indexing is facilitated by meristem tips; embryos are useful across many species. Standard cryo-methods include vitrification, encapsulation-dehydration, and controlled-rate cooling. Concept / Approach: Both meristem tip cultures and embryos have favorable surface area, metabolic status, and size for successful dehydration/vitrification and recovery. Hence, both are utilized worldwide in exchange systems and genebank operations. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify cryo-friendly tissues → meristem tips and embryos.Match to survival/regeneration metrics → consistent with literature reports.Conclude both are correct → choose option (c). Verification / Alternative check: International genebanks and tissue culture repositories document routine cryostorage of shoot tips and zygotic embryos with recovery to plantlets under optimized media. Why Other Options Are Wrong: a or b alone: incomplete; both are used.d) GA3/coconut milk are additives, not a unique requirement for cryopreservation success.e) Mature leaves generally show poor post-cryo regeneration. Common Pitfalls: Neglecting pre-culture and dehydration steps; inadequate osmoprotection reduces survival. Final Answer: Both (a) and (b).

Question 2

Somatic cell hybridization terminology — In cytoplast-based hybrid production, which fusion combination defines a cytoplast fusion event?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Somatic cell hybridization allows genome and cytoplasm mixing beyond sexual compatibility barriers. Terminology distinguishes “protoplast” (with nucleus) from “cytoplast” (enucleated cell). Cytoplast fusion is used to create cybrids, combining nuclear DNA from one parent with cytoplasmic organelles from another. Given Data / Assumptions: Protoplast = wall-less cell retaining nucleus and organelles. Cytoplast = enucleated protoplast created by irradiation, centrifugation, or micromanipulation. PEG or electrofusion promotes membrane fusion. Concept / Approach: Cytoplast fusion specifically refers to the union of one nucleated protoplast with an enucleated partner, yielding a cybrid where the nuclear genome comes predominantly from the nucleated donor, while cytoplasmic genomes (mitochondria, plastids) can derive from either/both parents. Step-by-Step Solution: Define terms → protoplast vs cytoplast.Match definition to fusion pair → nucleated + enucleated.Select option (b) as the precise description. Verification / Alternative check: Cybrid selection markers (chloroplast traits, antibiotic resistance) confirm cytoplasmic contribution from the cytoplast donor. Why Other Options Are Wrong: a) Produces somatic hybrids (nuclear + cytoplasmic mixing from both nuclei), not cytoplast fusion.c) Overbroad; only (b) fits the cytoplast definition.d) Two cytoplasts lack a nucleus; no viable hybrid genome. Common Pitfalls: Confusing somatic hybrids with cybrids; nuclear vs cytoplasmic inheritance goals dictate fusion pairing. Final Answer: Fusion of a normal (nucleated) protoplast with an enucleated protoplast (cytoplast).

Question 3

Self-incompatibility genetics (Brassica) — Sporophytic self-incompatibility (SSI) in Brassica is governed by which genetic system?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Self-incompatibility prevents self-fertilization and promotes outcrossing. In Brassica, SSI is controlled by a highly polymorphic S-locus encoding determinants on both pollen and stigmatic tissues that trigger pollen rejection when S specificities match. Given Data / Assumptions: SSI phenotype is determined by the diploid genotype of the pollen parent (sporophyte). S-locus receptor kinase (SRK) and S-locus cysteine-rich protein (SCR/SP11) are key components. Recognition causes signaling that arrests incompatible pollen. Concept / Approach: Because the incompatibility is sporophytic, the phenotype of pollen reflects the parental anther tissue genotype at the S-locus. Extensive allelic diversity at the S-locus underlies strong SI reactions in Brassica. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify species → Brassica with SSI.Identify genetic control → polymorphic S-locus (S alleles).Select option (d). Verification / Alternative check: Molecular mapping and functional studies of SRK/SCR confirm S-locus control of SSI in Brassica. Why Other Options Are Wrong: a,b) Refer to other genera; not relevant to Brassica SSI.c) Irrelevant combination.e) CMS affects male fertility, not the SI recognition system. Common Pitfalls: Confusing gametophytic SI (pollen haplotype-determined) with sporophytic SI; Brassica shows SSI. Final Answer: S alleles (S-locus polymorphism).

Question 4

Taxonomic scope — Which of the following are recognized classes of hybridization used in plant breeding?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Plant breeders exploit hybridization at multiple taxonomic levels to introgress traits, widen genetic bases, and create novel combinations. The category depends on the taxonomic distance between the parents: within a species, between species, or between genera. Given Data / Assumptions: Intervarietal crosses involve varieties/lines of the same species. Interspecific crosses bridge species barriers, sometimes requiring embryo rescue. Intergeneric crosses can produce wide hybrids or allotetraploids with chromosome doubling. Concept / Approach: All listed categories are valid and routinely referenced in breeding literature. The feasibility and fertility of hybrids generally decrease with increasing taxonomic distance, but biotechnological aids can overcome barriers. Step-by-Step Solution: Classify each option → all are legitimate hybridization classes.Recognize practical tools → bridge crosses, colchicine doubling, embryo rescue, protoplast fusion.Select “All of these”. Verification / Alternative check: Examples include: wheat intervarietal breeding; triticale (interspecific/intergeneric with rye and wheat ancestry); Brassica triangle interspecific crosses. Why Other Options Are Wrong: a–c alone are incomplete; each is only one class, whereas all are recognized.e) Incorrect; these classes are standard. Common Pitfalls: Assuming only within-species crosses are feasible; modern breeding routinely attempts wider crosses with appropriate techniques. Final Answer: All of these.

Question 5

Embryo rescue — Hybrid embryos that would otherwise abort can be salvaged by growing them under what condition?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Wide crosses often fail because developing hybrid embryos abort before seeds mature. Embryo rescue techniques excise the immature embryo and culture it in vitro on nutrient media, allowing development into viable plantlets that carry the desired hybrid genome. Given Data / Assumptions: Embryos are delicate and require balanced sugars, minerals, vitamins, amino acids, and plant growth regulators. The developmental stage at excision dictates the medium composition (e.g., higher sucrose for very immature embryos). Sterile technique and supportive temperature/light regimes are essential. Concept / Approach: Embryo rescue replaces the failing maternal endosperm/seed environment with an artificial medium that supplies nutrition and hormones, preventing collapse. Therefore, the correct condition is growth in an artificial medium tailored to the embryo’s stage and species. Step-by-Step Solution: Diagnose the barrier → embryo abortion in wide crosses.Select remedy → aseptic excision and culture on formulated media.Conclude → option (d) correctly states embryo rescue strategy. Verification / Alternative check: Classic successes include interspecific Brassica, lily, and grape hybrids obtained through embryo culture followed by acclimatization. Why Other Options Are Wrong: a–c) Environmental extremes alone do not rescue embryos and can be harmful.e) Withholding nutrients is the opposite of what embryos require. Common Pitfalls: Using adult tissue media for embryos; instead, tailor osmoticum and regulators to the embryo stage to avoid vitrification or necrosis. Final Answer: In an artificial (in vitro) culture medium optimized for embryo growth.

Question 6

Banana improvement via meristem culture In plant micropropagation programs for banana, what key benefits does meristem (shoot tip) culture provide under aseptic in vitro conditions?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Meristem culture (also called shoot tip culture) is widely used for banana improvement because it accelerates clonal multiplication and helps eradicate systemic pathogens, including viruses such as Banana bunchy top virus. The tiny dome of meristematic tissue is often virus-free or has very low virus titer, enabling recovery of clean planting stock. Given Data / Assumptions: Tissue is a small shoot tip or apical dome with a few leaf primordia. Cultured on sterile, nutrient-rich medium under controlled light and temperature. Goal: produce many pathogen-free plantlets quickly. Concept / Approach: Meristem-tip culture exploits the fact that active meristematic cells divide rapidly and are commonly ahead of systemic virus movement. When combined with thermotherapy or chemotherapy, this significantly reduces or eliminates virus. Micropropagation further allows exponential multiplication in limited space. Step-by-Step Solution: Excise 0.1–1.0 mm meristem with minimal surrounding tissue.Surface-sterilize and inoculate onto initiation medium (e.g., MS-based) with cytokinins for shoot induction.Multiply shoots via repeated subculture; root on auxin-lean media.Index plantlets for viruses; acclimatize to greenhouse and field. Verification / Alternative check: Virus indexing (ELISA/RT-PCR) confirms pathogen-free status. Multiplication rates per cycle demonstrate the speed advantage over conventional suckers. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Rapid multiplication alone omits the sanitation benefit. Virus elimination alone ignores the scalability advantage. “Slow growth” contradicts the hallmark of micropropagation. Common Pitfalls: Using too large an explant may carry virus; inadequate asepsis reduces success. Balancing cytokinin/auxin is critical for healthy shoot proliferation. Final Answer: Both (a) and (b)

Question 7

Plant virology and sugarcane germplasm Which virus has been confirmed to infect sugarcane genotypes in breeding and pathology studies?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Sugarcane is affected by several important viruses. One well-known pathogen group is the sugarcane bacilliform viruses (family Caulimoviridae, genus Badnavirus), which can infect diverse genotypes and complicate germplasm exchange and breeding. Given Data / Assumptions: The focus is on viruses known in plants, specifically sugarcane. Human viruses (e.g., Cytomegalovirus, Varicella-zoster) are not plant pathogens. Correct option should reference a plant-relevant virus linked to sugarcane. Concept / Approach: Identify the virus genuinely associated with sugarcane. Sugarcane bacilliform virus is a pararetrovirus detected worldwide and is significant for quarantine and sanitation programs. Step-by-Step Solution: Exclude human-specific viruses (Cytomegalovirus, Varicella-zoster).Exclude unrelated categories not confirmed in sugarcane breeding contexts (e.g., human Erythrovirus).Select Bacilliform virus as the plant-relevant sugarcane pathogen. Verification / Alternative check: Plant pathology literature and certification schemes for sugarcane list badnaviruses among targeted pathogens for indexing and clean stock programs. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Cytomegalovirus and Varicella-zoster infect humans, not sugarcane. Erythrovirus is human/animal related (parvoviruses), not a sugarcane agent. Orthomyxoviruses are mostly animal/human (e.g., influenza). Common Pitfalls: Confusing human/animal viruses with plant viruses; plant virus taxonomy differs substantially from medical virology. Final Answer: Bacilliform virus

Question 8

Agrobacterium-induced tumor phenotype in plant cells The tumorigenic phenotype that can be maintained indefinitely in tissue culture arises from the expression of genes located on which DNA segment?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Crown gall disease and related tumor phenotypes in plants are caused by Agrobacterium transferring a defined DNA region, the T-DNA, into the host genome. Once integrated, genes on the T-DNA are expressed, reprogramming hormone metabolism and causing autonomous growth even in vitro. Given Data / Assumptions: T-DNA integrates stably into plant nuclear chromosomes. Oncogenes alter auxin/cytokinin balance and opine synthesis. Transformed tissue retains tumorous growth without the bacterium. Concept / Approach: Distinguish the unique, transferred DNA (T-DNA) from other nucleic acid terms. cDNA is a laboratory construct; rDNA often refers to ribosomal DNA repeats; mRNA is a transient transcript not the heritable cause of the phenotype. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify the causal element for tumorigenesis: T-DNA genes (e.g., iaa/ipt-related loci in wild strains).Recognize stable expression in plant cells after integration.Conclude T-DNA is the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: Removal of bacteria does not reverse the tumor phenotype; molecular assays detect integrated T-DNA in cultured tumor cells. Why Other Options Are Wrong: cDNA is synthesized from mRNA in vitro for cloning; not causal in planta. rDNA encodes ribosomal RNAs; unrelated to tumor induction. mRNA is not a genomic locus; it is a gene expression product. Common Pitfalls: Assuming vir genes are transferred; they are required in the bacterium but do not integrate with T-DNA into the plant genome. Final Answer: T-DNA

Question 9

Embryo culture and callus induction—MS medium supplements For immature embryos, MS medium is essential for initial morphogenesis and enhanced callus development when additionally supplemented with which components?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Morphogenesis from immature embryos often requires a rich hormonal and organic environment. Beyond mineral salts (MS medium), supplemental organic additives like coconut milk and growth regulators such as GA3 can promote cell division, callus proliferation, and subsequent differentiation. Given Data / Assumptions: Target explants are immature embryos with high developmental plasticity. MS salts provide baseline nutrition; additives modulate morphogenesis. Desired outcome is robust callus and organogenic competence. Concept / Approach: Coconut milk provides vitamins, amino acids, sugars, and natural cytokinins; GA3 influences embryonic growth and elongation. Their combination is historically noted to enhance early morphogenesis and callus vigor in several species. Step-by-Step Solution: Prepare MS medium as the basal formulation.Supplement with coconut milk (organic complex) and GA3 to stimulate embryonic tissues.Monitor callus induction, then adjust auxin/cytokinin ratios for organogenesis. Verification / Alternative check: Comparative cultures with and without coconut milk/GA3 show improved callusing and subsequent morphogenesis in many protocols. Why Other Options Are Wrong: GA3 alone may not match the stimulatory effect achieved with coconut milk. Adenine or adenine+kinetin can help in some cases, but the question emphasizes the proven pair for initial morphogenesis and callus enhancement. Activated charcoal adsorbs regulators and may reduce effective hormone levels at this stage. Common Pitfalls: Using excessive GA3 can reduce organogenesis; concentration and timing are crucial. Final Answer: GA3 and coconut milk

Question 10

Overview of protoplast fusion workflows Which sequence best describes what the protoplast fusion technique generally involves in plant biotechnology?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Protoplast fusion enables somatic hybridization, combining genomes from sexually incompatible species or genotypes. The classic workflow proceeds from wall removal to fusion and then to culture-based regeneration. Given Data / Assumptions: Cell walls are enzymatically removed to yield protoplasts. Fusion is induced chemically (PEG) or electrically (electrofusion). Fused cells are regenerated into plants via callus/organogenesis. Concept / Approach: The technique does not end at fusion; viable hybrids require culture steps to reform walls, divide, form callus, and regenerate shoots/roots. Selection markers and cytological checks verify hybridity. Step-by-Step Solution: Isolate protoplasts from parents A and B.Induce fusion (PEG or electrofusion) to create heterokaryons.Culture to regenerate walls, proliferate, and regenerate plantlets. Verification / Alternative check: Hybridity confirmed by chromosome counts, molecular markers, or organelle-specific markers (cybrids). Why Other Options Are Wrong: Isolation alone is incomplete. Isolation+fusion without culturing will not yield plants. Conventional crossing is sexual, not somatic fusion. Electroporation of intact tissues is a different method (gene transfer), not fusion. Common Pitfalls: Failing to optimize osmotic conditions; inadequate selection allows unfused cells to dominate. Final Answer: Isolation, fusion, and culturing (regeneration)

Question 11

Gene delivery by microinjection—method classification Microinjection of nucleic acids (NA) directly into plant or animal cells is best classified as which type of gene transfer method?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Microinjection introduces DNA or RNA directly into cells using fine glass needles or microneedle systems under microscopic control. This bypasses carrier organisms and relies on physical penetration of the plasma or nuclear membrane. Given Data / Assumptions: Nucleic acids are delivered cell-by-cell. No vector (like Agrobacterium) is required. Specialized equipment (micromanipulators) is used. Concept / Approach: Classify based on mechanism. Biological methods use living vectors (e.g., Agrobacterium, viruses). Chemical methods rely on PEG, calcium phosphate, or liposomes. Physical methods include microinjection, particle bombardment, electroporation, and laser poration. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify absence of biological vector → not biological.Identify direct, mechanical entry → a physical approach.Conclude microinjection is a physical gene transfer technique. Verification / Alternative check: Protocols categorize microinjection with other direct methods in gene transfer manuals. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Biological methods use organisms; not applicable here. Chemical agents alone are not the mechanism. “Combination” is unnecessary; the defining trait is physical penetration. Common Pitfalls: Assuming microinjection scales easily; it is labor-intensive and typically for large cells, oocytes, or early embryos. Final Answer: Physical method

Question 12

Genetic background of commercial sugarcane Modern commercial sugarcane cultivars are heterozygous and typically derive germplasm from how many Saccharum species?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Commercial sugarcane is a complex interspecific hybrid, primarily between S. officinarum and S. spontaneum, with contributions from other species such as S. robustum, S. barberi, and S. sinense. This broad germplasm base increases heterozygosity and agronomic resilience. Given Data / Assumptions: Breeding history includes repeated backcrossing and selection. Multiple Saccharum species contribute traits like sucrose content and stress tolerance. The range sought reflects typical, not extreme, contributions. Concept / Approach: Summarize the commonly cited composition of modern cultivars: two major parents plus minor inputs from additional related species, totaling around 3–5 species in practical breeding lineages. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify principal contributors: S. officinarum (high sugar) and S. spontaneum (hardiness).Acknowledge auxiliary contributions: S. robustum, S. barberi, S. sinense.Conclude the typical range as 3–5 species. Verification / Alternative check: Breeding literature and cultivar pedigrees often list these species as sources of key traits. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 1–3 underestimates genetic inputs beyond the two primaries. 5–7 or more overstates routine contributions for commercial lines. Common Pitfalls: Assuming all cultivars share identical ancestry; ranges vary, but 3–5 species is a solid generalization. Final Answer: 3–5 Saccharum species

Question 13

Engineering PHB (polyhydroxybutyrate) biosynthesis in plants In transgenic Arabidopsis thaliana, which bacterial enzyme gene(s) are introduced to enable synthesis of PHB biopolymer in plastids or cytosol?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: PHB is a biodegradable polyester produced naturally by bacteria. To synthesize PHB in plants, researchers express a minimal pathway encoded by bacterial genes, typically including acetoacetyl-CoA reductase (phbB) and PHB synthase (phbC), together with beta-ketothiolase (phbA) in many constructs. Given Data / Assumptions: Target is to assemble a functional PHB biosynthetic route in plant cells. Enzymes must convert acetyl-CoA to PHB via acetoacetyl-CoA → 3-hydroxybutyryl-CoA → PHB. Option list focuses on two key enzymatic steps. Concept / Approach: Acetoacetyl-CoA reductase reduces acetoacetyl-CoA to 3-hydroxybutyryl-CoA, and PHB synthase polymerizes the monomer to PHB. Thus, both are necessary components of the engineered pathway in many plant systems. Step-by-Step Solution: Route: acetyl-CoA → acetoacetyl-CoA (beta-ketothiolase).Acetoacetyl-CoA → 3-hydroxybutyryl-CoA (acetoacetyl-CoA reductase).3-hydroxybutyryl-CoA → PHB (PHB synthase). Verification / Alternative check: Transgenic plants expressing phbA, phbB, and phbC accumulate PHB granules detectable by microscopy and biochemical assays. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Single-enzyme choices are insufficient for polymer formation. Pyrophosphorylase and glycolytic enzymes are unrelated to PHB polymerization. Common Pitfalls: Incorrect gene targeting (organelle localization) limits substrate availability; balanced expression of all pathway genes is required for efficient polymer accumulation. Final Answer: Both (a) and (b)

Question 14

Developing nematode-resistant plants—method selection Which approach(es) can be used within breeding and biotechnology pipelines to develop plant lines resistant to nematodes?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Nematodes severely impact crop yields. Resistance can be introduced by several non-transgenic strategies: wide hybridization aided by embryo rescue, induced mutation breeding, and conventional selection including somaclonal variants from tissue culture. Given Data / Assumptions: Goal is resistance without necessarily using recombinant DNA. Multiple pipeline tools can contribute complementary advantages. Final selection is based on bioassays and agronomic performance. Concept / Approach: Embryo rescue salvages hybrids from wide crosses that might otherwise abort, transferring resistance from wild relatives. Mutation breeding creates new alleles that may confer resistance. Non-recombinant DNA methods include recurrent selection, marker-assisted backcrossing if markers are available, and exploiting somaclonal variation. Step-by-Step Solution: Use embryo rescue to introgress resistance from wild species.Apply mutagens (physical/chemical) to generate diversity; screen progeny for resistance.Leverage non-transgenic selection pipelines to fix and stack favorable alleles. Verification / Alternative check: Greenhouse and field nematode inoculation tests validate resistance; molecular markers can track introgressed segments. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Each single approach may work, but the question asks which can be used—collectively “All of these” is most complete. Common Pitfalls: Failing to pyramid resistance sources; relying on a single mechanism can lead to breakdown under field pressure. Final Answer: All of these

Question 15

Speeding meristem culture in sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas) Which supplement(s) are commonly added to accelerate shoot initiation and multiplication during meristem culture for sweet potato improvement?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Meristem culture of Ipomoea batatas targets rapid recovery of clean, vigorous plantlets. Balanced auxin and cytokinin inputs are pivotal for initiating shoots from tiny meristems and for subsequent multiplication. Given Data / Assumptions: Explants are very small meristem tips that require precise hormonal cues. Cytokinins drive shoot proliferation; auxins modulate root initiation and morphogenesis. Species-specific optimization is typical in protocols. Concept / Approach: Cytokinins (e.g., BAP, kinetin) are primary drivers for shoot induction and multiplication. Auxins (e.g., NAA, IAA, IBA) support morphogenesis and later rooting. Using both, in tuned ratios, speeds the culture cycle and improves plantlet quality. Step-by-Step Solution: Initiate meristems on cytokinin-enriched medium for shoot induction.Adjust auxin during rooting stages; fine-tune to prevent vitrification.Cycle through multiplication and rooting phases to scale production quickly. Verification / Alternative check: Comparative trials show higher shoot numbers and faster cycles when both hormone classes are used appropriately versus single-hormone or hormone-free media. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Auxins alone or cytokinins alone often reduce efficiency or imbalance growth. Adenine can act as a cytokinin enhancer but is rarely sufficient by itself. Hormone-free media are generally inadequate for rapid meristem multiplication. Common Pitfalls: Overuse of cytokinins leading to hyperhydricity; insufficient auxin during rooting prolongs the cycle. Final Answer: Both (a) and (b)

Question 16

Plant molecular markers and self-incompatibility: A cDNA clone prepared from stigma mRNA of Brassica oleracea is used as a probe on DNA digests of segregating populations to recognize which genetic elements?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Brassica species such as Brassica oleracea (cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli) exhibit a sporophytic self-incompatibility system controlled at the S-locus. Stigmatic mRNAs include transcripts from S-locus receptor kinase and related genes. A cDNA probe derived from stigma mRNA can track allelic variation in segregating populations, aiding marker-assisted selection and genetic studies of self-incompatibility. Given Data / Assumptions: cDNA clone is prepared from stigma mRNA of Brassica oleracea. Probe is hybridized to DNA digests (e.g., Southern blots) from a segregating population. Goal is to identify polymorphisms linked to a trait expressed in stigmas. Concept / Approach: The key transcripts in Brassica stigmas related to self-incompatibility map to the S-locus. Using a stigma-derived cDNA probe, one can detect restriction fragment length polymorphisms that cosegregate with S-alleles. This enables assignment of specific S-haplotypes in breeding material or mapping populations without phenotyping every cross. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify the biological process prominent in stigma tissue: self-incompatibility signaling.Associate stigma mRNA with S-locus genes (e.g., SRK, SLG) that vary among S-alleles.Recognize that DNA hybridization with a stigma cDNA probe will reveal bands that segregate with S-alleles.Conclude that the probe recognizes S-alleles in segregating populations. Verification / Alternative check: Classical Brassica genetics shows tight linkage between stigma-expressed S-locus genes and SI phenotype; cosegregation of hybridization patterns with SI classes validates allele identification in progenies. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Aegilops or Triticum: different genera (wheat relatives), unrelated to Brassica S-locus diagnostics. Both (a) and (b): mixing unrelated cereals and Brassica is incorrect. Only R genes: stigma cDNA probes target SI genes rather than general disease resistance loci. Common Pitfalls: Confusing sporophytic SI in Brassica with gametophytic SI systems of other plants; the molecular markers and expressed genes differ between systems. Final Answer: S alleles (self-incompatibility alleles)

Question 17

Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD): What does the RAPD method primarily reveal or assess in genetic analyses?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) is a PCR-based marker technique that uses short arbitrary primers to amplify anonymous regions across the genome. The presence or absence of bands reflects DNA polymorphisms and is widely used for diversity analysis, fingerprinting, and preliminary mapping. Given Data / Assumptions: Short, arbitrary primers (usually 10-mers) are used. No prior sequence information is required. Banding patterns differ among genotypes due to polymorphisms at primer binding sites. Concept / Approach: RAPD exploits random priming under low stringency. Single nucleotide changes, insertions/deletions, or rearrangements at primer sites alter amplification, generating polymorphic bands. These patterns help assess intra-specific variability and, to a lesser extent, inter-specific relationships. RAPD does not manipulate gene expression; it is a genotyping tool. Step-by-Step Solution: Recognize RAPD as a PCR genotyping, not gene regulation, method.Link random primers to polymorphic banding patterns on gels.Interpret band presence/absence as genetic similarity or divergence.Choose the option describing diversity and variation assessment. Verification / Alternative check: Cluster analyses (e.g., UPGMA) built from RAPD band matrices routinely recover known relationships among cultivars or populations, validating its use for diversity studies. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Options about activating or eliminating pathway expression describe functional genomics interventions, not RAPD. Absolute transcript quantification requires qPCR/RT-qPCR, not RAPD. Common Pitfalls: Overinterpreting RAPD without replication; reproducibility can be sensitive to PCR conditions. Use multiple primers and technical repeats to stabilize inferences. Final Answer: Reveal intra-specific variation and diversity between species using random primers

Question 18

Avermectins (AVM): These macrocyclic lactones with potent antihelminthic and insecticidal activity are generally derived from the mycelia of which microorganism?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Avermectins are a celebrated class of macrocyclic lactones widely used in veterinary and crop protection contexts. Understanding their natural source organism is important in bioprocessing, industrial microbiology, and the history of natural product discovery. Given Data / Assumptions: Avermectins display strong activity against helminths and many arthropods. The compounds are secondary metabolites isolated from actinomycete cultures. Commercial derivatives (e.g., ivermectin) are semi-synthetic modifications of natural avermectins. Concept / Approach: Streptomyces avermitilis (now also referred to as Streptomyces avermitilis in modern taxonomy) produces avermectins in fermentation. Downstream chemical modification yields ivermectin and related analogs with improved pharmacological properties. Other bacteria listed produce useful bioactives (e.g., Bacillus thuringiensis toxins), but not avermectins. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify the natural producer of avermectins: an actinomycete.Distinguish S. avermitilis from Bacillus and Pseudomonas species associated with other bioactives.Recall industrial fermentation processes optimized for avermectin yield.Select “Streptomyces avermitilis”. Verification / Alternative check: Process development literature and drug monographs explicitly attribute avermectin discovery and production to S. avermitilis cultures, confirming the source organism. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Bacillus thuringiensis: produces Cry toxins; not avermectins. Pseudomonas fluorescens: known for biocontrol traits, not AVM. L. peruvianum and S. cerevisiae: a plant and a yeast, respectively; neither produces avermectins. Common Pitfalls: Conflating general “biopesticide” terminology; different products come from distinct organisms and pathways. Final Answer: Streptomyces avermitilis

Question 19

Somaclonal variation in plant tissue culture: What does the term “somaclonal variation” most accurately refer to?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Somaclonal variation is a powerful concept in plant biotechnology. It describes novel variation that appears among plants regenerated from tissue culture, providing a source of potentially useful traits for breeding, especially when conventional variation is limited. Given Data / Assumptions: Cells are cultured in vitro (callus, suspension, protoplasts). Regenerated plants may differ genetically or epigenetically from the donor. Some variants are stable and heritable through seed or clonal propagation. Concept / Approach: Stress, genome instability, transposon activation, chromosomal rearrangements, point mutations, and epigenetic changes can occur during culture. When such changes are stably inherited, they constitute somaclonal variation. Breeders can select for traits like disease resistance, altered metabolites, or stress tolerance among regenerants. Step-by-Step Solution: Recognize that the defining feature is heritable change emerging from in vitro culture.Differentiate it from transient stress responses that vanish in progeny.Note its dual nature: genetic and epigenetic modifications.Choose the option that explicitly mentions heritable change from culture. Verification / Alternative check: Field evaluations of tissue-culture-derived lines show fixed variants across generations, demonstrating heritability and breeding utility of selected somaclones. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Genetic isolation, limited species, or mere cell proliferation do not capture the heritable novelty aspect. Nonheritable stress responses are excluded by definition. Common Pitfalls: Assuming all culture-induced changes are beneficial; many are deleterious. Rigorous screening is required to identify desirable somaclones. Final Answer: Heritable changes (genetic/epigenetic) arising in cells cultured in vitro

Question 20

Cultivated tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum / Solanum lycopersicum): This cultivated species is generally highly susceptible to which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.) are major pests of tomato. While some modern cultivars carry the Mi-1 resistance gene introgressed from wild relatives, the baseline cultivated tomato germplasm without such resistance is characteristically susceptible, making this an important target for breeding and integrated pest management. Given Data / Assumptions: The question refers to cultivated tomato species sensu lato. Options include a pest (Meloidogyne) and unrelated plant species names. Susceptibility is asked, not cross-compatibility or host range of other plants. Concept / Approach: Meloidogyne spp. invade roots, induce giant cells, and cause galls that disrupt water and nutrient uptake. In the absence of the Mi-1 gene or other resistance sources, substantial yield loss can occur. Wild species such as L. peruvianum are used as resistance donors rather than being “agents” causing disease in cultivated tomato. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify the only pathogen/pest in the list: Meloidogyne spp.Recall that cultivated tomato is commonly vulnerable without bred-in resistance.Exclude options that are plant species (not pathogens).Select Meloidogyne spp. nematodes as the susceptibility factor. Verification / Alternative check: Extension bulletins consistently report heavy losses in susceptible tomato cultivars; resistant varieties highlight the necessity of Mi-1 or similar genes to manage root-knot nematodes. Why Other Options Are Wrong: L. peruvianum and S. melongena are plants, not causal agents of disease in tomato. Both (a) and (b): mixes a pest with a plant species, illogical. A. rhizogenes: while it can transform plants experimentally, “default” field susceptibility is not the context here. Common Pitfalls: Confusing donor species of resistance (wild tomatoes) with pathogens; breeders introgress genes from L. peruvianum to reduce susceptibility to Meloidogyne. Final Answer: Meloidogyne spp. (root-knot) nematodes

Special Proteins and Crop Improvement Questions