Tag: applications of biotechnology

Genetically modified organisms are those whose genome is altered by transgene using the genetic engineering techniques to produce genetically modified foods. The genome of the modified organisms is altered by the gene of unrelated organisms. 

Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is a Gram-positive bacterium that produces crystals during sporulation. These crystals comprise ~130 kDa protoxins called crystal proteins which are potent and highly specific insecticides. Once ingested by specific host, these crystals dissolve in the alkaline conditions of the gut thereby activating the protoxins. The active toxins then bind to receptors on midgut epithelial cells, become inserted into the plasma membrane where they form pores leading to cell death through osmotic lysis. This special feature of Bt toxin was explored in genetic engineering to produce bioinsecticidal Bt brinjal plants. Correct answer is C.

• Maize hybrids with higher lysine content were developed to improve the protein in corn.
• This hybrid maize provides substantially higher levels of two essential amino acids - Lysine and tryptophan.
• So the correct answer is 'Lysine'

• Wheat is a  cereal grain which is a worldwide staple food. Wheat is an important source of carbohydrates and has a protein content of about 13%, which is relatively high compared to other major cereals.
• RR-21 (Sonalika) is a high yielding variety of wheat which is an early maturing single dwarf wheat with wide adaptation and good attractive amber grains. The variety is very suitable for late sowings. It is resistant to rusts.
• Other varieties of wheat are kalyansona and girija.

Golden rice is produced by genetic engineering to biosynthesize beta-carotene. Genetically modified corn is a genetically modified crop. Maize strains have been genetically engineered to acquired traits, including resistance to pests and to herbicides. Flavr Savr a genetically modified tomato was the first commercially grown genetically engineered food for human consumption.  Basmati rice GM crops have increased the reliance of farmers on herbicides and leading to new weed problems as well as to many legal problems.