Question

Which of the following methods of transferring DNA is useful in bacteria and plants, but not in animals?

• A. Bacteriophage infection
• B. Plasmid transfer
• C. Microinjection of DNA
• D. Laser irradiation of cells in a fluid containing DNA

Answer 1

The correct option is B Plasmid transfer

Plasmid transfer is a method of transferring foreign DNA in for plants and bacteria involving disarmed pathogen like Agrobacterium. This bacterium i.e. Agrobacterium has a plasmid, or loop of non-chromosomal DNA, that contains tumor-inducing genes (T-DNA), along with additional genes that help the T-DNA integrate into the host genome. For genetic engineering purposes, Agrobacterium must first be “disarmed” so that it does not make the plant sick. This is done by removing most of the T-DNA while leaving the left and right border sequences, which integrate a foreign gene into the genome of cultured plant cells.

Microinjection is done for more trans of DNA into animal cells. Bacteriophage infection works only for bacteria.

So, the correct option is 'Plasmid transfer'.