More Questions from Special Proteins and Crop Improvement

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

Biotechnology Special Proteins and Crop Improvement Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
  • A
    Isolation only
  • B
    Isolation and fusion
  • C
    Isolation, fusion, and culturing (regeneration)
  • D
    Hybridization between two species by conventional crossing only
  • E
    Electroporation of intact tissues only

Answer

Correct Answer: Isolation, fusion, and culturing (regeneration)

Explanation

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)

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