NEET2020ZoologyBiotechnology and Its ApplicationsActual
RNA interference is used for which of the following purposes in the field of biotechnology?
Options
- ATo develop a plant tolerant to abiotic stresses
- BTo develop a pest resistant plant against infestation by nematode
- CTo enhance the mineral usage by the plant
- DTo reduce post harvest losses
Correct answer
B. To develop a pest resistant plant against infestation by nematode
Step-by-step solution
RNAi or RNA interference or anti-sense RNA is a naturally occurring mechanism that leads to the “silencing” of genes. In consequence, the respective protein is no longer synthesized. Several nematodes parasitize a wide variety of plants. A nematode Meloidogyne incognita infects the roots of tobacco plants causing a great reduction in yield. The most cost-effective and sustainable management tactic for preventing such damage is by using RNAi mechanism by developing genetically engineered or transgenic pl