Question

Why does this nematode die on eating such a GM plant?

Answer 1

Insects and nematodes die on eating GM plants because these plants contain certain genes that code for toxic substances and proteins. These genes are inserted into these plant using a suitable vector

The toxic substances and proteins produced by these genes destroys the epithelial lining of the gut and bore cavities in them, completely blocking the digestive function of these organisms leading to death.

Example of the toxin is Bt toxin naturally present in bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis, introduced in cotton to prevent the boll disease.

The toxin is coded by cry g gene while the proteins are produced by cry 1Ac gene and cry 11Ab gene