Engineering virus resistance in plants: which genetic strategies have been used to create resistance against plant viral infections?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: All of these

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Transgenic strategies for plant virus resistance predate RNA interference and include “pathogen-derived resistance.” By expressing viral components in the plant, replication or movement of the invading virus can be impaired.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Coat protein–mediated resistance can block uncoating or assembly dynamics.
  • Movement/nucleocapsid proteins can interfere with cell-to-cell or systemic spread.
  • Satellite RNAs can attenuate symptom development with certain helper viruses.


Concept / Approach:
Each approach exploits molecular interference. Coat protein expression often yields broad resistance to related strains. Movement/nucleocapsid protein expression can disrupt trafficking. Satellite RNA can modulate pathogenicity by competing for replication machinery.


Step-by-Step Solution:

List known, published strategies: CP, MP/NP, and satellite RNA.Assess mechanism: interference with viral life cycle stages.Select the comprehensive option including all three.


Verification / Alternative check:
Classic examples include coat-protein-mediated resistance in tobacco and squash, and satellite RNA approaches against Cucumber mosaic virus.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • A/B/C alone are incomplete.
  • E is incorrect; RNAi is powerful but not the only method historically or currently used.


Common Pitfalls:
Assuming a single universal mechanism; efficacy is virus- and host-dependent.


Final Answer:
All of these

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