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Question

Strategy used to prevent nematode infection of tobacco roots is

A
Bt toxin gene
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B
Use of agrochemicals
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C
RNA interference
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D
Gene mutation
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Solution

The correct option is C RNA interference
RNA interference (RNAi) or silencing of RNA is a method used to prevent the expression of a gene.

RNA interference mechanism is as follows:
  • A small stretch of double stranded RNA is introduced in the cell.
  • It is then converted into a single stranded form after processing.
  • This then binds to the complementary regions of targeted mRNA.
  • The mRNA degrades as it cannot be processed by ribosomes.
  • Hence, the translation of target mRNA is prevented.
RNA interference mechanism in root-knot worm is as follows:
  • Parasites like the root-knot worm, Meloidogyne incognita, attack the root cells of plants (tobacco) which then form large galls or knots, damaging the crop and reducing the yield.
  • Gene from M. incognita can be cloned in the Ti plasmid and can be introduced in the tobacco plant using the Agrobacterium vector.
  • It is done in such a way that both the sense and antisense RNA get expressed which are complementary to each other.
  • This forms double stranded RNA.
  • This dsRNA is taken up by the nematode while it feeds on the host plant parts and RNAi is initiated.
  • The particular gene(s) targeted are usually the gene(s) essential for development.
  • They are silenced now.
  • Therefore, the nematode cannot grow in the host plant and the plant gains pest resistance.
Agrochemicals are chemicals used in the cultivation of crops for enhancing plant growth and also protecting it from various insect-pest.

The Bt toxin gene is incorporated in several crops to make them pest resistant. For example, Bt cotton, Bt corn etc.

Gene mutation is a process of sudden changes in DNA sequences that makes up a gene.

Hence the correct option is
d. RNA interference

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