Read the following statements regarding the mechanism of pest resistance in tobacco plants via RNA interference (RNAi): Statement A: Agrobacterium vectors are used to introduce nematode-specific genes into the host plant. Statement B: The introduced DNA is designed to produce only antisense RNA in the host cells. Statement C: Transposons that replicate via an RNA intermediate can act as a natural source of complement

Step-by-step solution

Let us evaluate each statement: Statement A is correct. Nematode-specific genes are introduced into the host plant using Agrobacterium vectors. Statement B is incorrect. The introduction of DNA is such that it produces both sense and antisense RNA in the host cells. These two RNAs being complementary to each other form a double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) that initiates RNAi. Statement C is correct. The natural source of complementary RNA for RNAi can be an infection by RNA viruses or mobile genetic elements (transposons)