Q.64 Given below are the names of some genes/enzymes and their use in genetically modified crops.
Match the two columns.
Gene/enzyme Commercial use
———– ———————
P. Bt gene i. golden rice
Q. 𝛽-carotene biosynthetic genes ii. insect resistance
R. ACC deaminase iii. herbicide resistance
S. EPSP synthase iv. fruit ripening
(A) P, i; Q, ii; R, iii; S, iv
(B) P, ii; Q, i; R, iv; S, iii
(C) P, iii; Q, i; R, ii; S, iv
(D) P, ii; Q, i; R, iii; S, iv
Bt gene and other genetic modifications drive key traits in genetically modified crops for agriculture. This article decodes a common exam question on gene-enzyme matching with the right answer and breakdowns.
Correct Answer
Option (B) P, ii; Q, i; R, iv; S, iii matches correctly. Bt gene (P) provides insect resistance (ii), β-carotene genes (Q) create golden rice (i), ACC deaminase (R) delays fruit ripening (iv), and EPSP synthase (S) enables herbicide resistance (iii).
Gene Functions Explained
Bt gene from Bacillus thuringiensis produces Cry toxins lethal to insects like bollworms, reducing pesticide needs in crops such as cotton and corn. β-carotene biosynthetic genes, inserted into rice, boost provitamin A to combat malnutrition in golden rice. ACC deaminase breaks down ethylene precursor, slowing ripening for longer shelf life in fruits like tomatoes. EPSP synthase, modified for glyphosate tolerance, allows herbicides to target weeds without harming crops.
Option Analysis
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(A) P-i, Q-ii, R-iii, S-iv: Wrong; Bt gene links to insect resistance, not golden rice.
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(B) P-ii, Q-i, R-iv, S-iii: Correct; aligns all functions accurately.
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(C) P-iii, Q-i, R-ii, S-iv: Incorrect; Bt does not confer herbicide resistance.
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(D) P-ii, Q-i, R-iii, S-iv: False; ACC deaminase affects ripening, not herbicides.
GM Crops in India
India grows Bt cotton extensively for pest control since 2002, alongside emerging golden rice trials. Herbicide-tolerant soy and delayed-ripening tomatoes show commercial promise, boosting yields and farmer income.
