1. With reference to the recent developments in science, which one of the following statements is not correct?
(a) Functional chromosomes can be created by joining segments of DNA taken from cells of different species.
(b) Pieces of artificial functional DNA can be created in laboratories.
(c) A piece of DNA taken out from an animal cell can be made to replicate outside a living cell in a laboratory.
(d) Cells taken out from plants and animals can be made to undergo cell division in laboratory petri dishes.
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2019]
Ans. (a) Functional chromosomes can be created by joining segments of DNA taken from cells of different species.
- Option (a) is incorrect because combining pieces of DNA from different species does not create functional chromosomes.
- Options (b), (c), and (d) are correct.
- (b) applies to artificial DNA synthesis, (c) applies to cloning, and (d) applies to tissue culture.
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2. With reference to recent developments regarding ‘Recombinant Vector Vaccines’, consider the following statements :
1. Genetic engineering is applied in the development of these vaccines.
2. Bacteria and viruses are used as vectors. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2021]
Ans. (c) Both 1 and 2
- Live recombinant vector vaccines are made with a weakened version of a virus or bacteria that has been genetically modified to carry genes that create the desired immunity-building antigens.
- These vaccines are special because they can help the body learn how to fight off germs by stimulating both humoral and cell-mediated immunity, like a natural infection.
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3. Recombinant DNA Technology (Genetic Engineering) allows genes to be transferred –
1. Across different species of plants.
2. From animals to plants.
3. From microorganisms to higher organisms.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below
(a) Only 1
(b) 2 and 3
(c) 1 and 3
(d) All of these
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2013]
Ans. (d) All of these
- Recombinant DNA Technology is a way to move a certain DNA sequence from one organism into another, changing the genetics of the recipient organism.
- This process can be done with bacteria, yeast, viruses, plant and animal cells.
- This technique of genetic engineering allows us to take a single gene sequence from one organism and transfer it to another, even if the two organisms are not related.
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4. Steps of Recombinant DNA technology are given below:
A. Identification and isolation of the genetic material.
B. Fragmentation of DNA.
C. Obtaining the foreign gene product.
D. Downstream processing.
E. Ligation of DNA fragmentation into the vector.
F. Isolation of desired DNA fragments.
G . Amplification of gene of interest.
H. Transfer of Recombinant DNA into the host cell/ organism.
The correct sequence of steps is
(a) C → A → B → D → E → F → G → H
(b) A → D → C → B → E → G → F → H
(c) A → B → F → G → E → H → C → D
(d) H → F → G → E → A → D → B → C
[R.A.S./R.T.S. (Pre) (Re. Exam) 2013]
Ans. (c) A → B → F → G → E → H → C → D
- The process of making recombined DNA involves identifying and taking out the genetic material, breaking it into pieces, selecting the desired parts, making more of the wanted gene, joining the DNA parts into a vector, putting the recombined DNA into a host cell or organism, getting the foreign gene product, and finally doing some finishing work.
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5. Assertion (A): Scientists can cut apart and paste together DNA molecules at will, regardless of the source of the molecules. Reason (R): DNA fragments can be manipulated using restriction endonucleases and DNA ligases.
Code :
(a) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
(b) Both (A) and (R) are true but (R) is not a correct explanation of (A).
(c) (A) is true but (R) is false.
(d) (A) is false but (R) is true.
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2001]
Ans. (a) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
- Restriction endonucleases are enzymes that cut DNA molecules at specific points.
- Through genetic engineering, these pieces can be rejoined using an enzyme called DNA ligase.
- Werner Arber, Daniel Nathans, and Hamilton O. Smith were awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1978 for discovering restriction endonucleases and using them to solve molecular genetics problems.
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6. Which of the following pairs is correctly matched?
(a) DNA – Molecular Scissors
(b) Ligases – Molecular Scissors
(c) Ligases – Molecular Stitchers
(d) Restriction – Molecular Stitchers
Endonucleases
[R.A.S./R.T.S. (Pre) (Re. Exam) 2013]
Ans. (c) Ligases – Molecular Stitchers
- Ligases are enzymes that help create connections between molecules in cells.
- They are like “molecular stitchers” as they help repair broken molecules by forming covalent bonds between the fragments.
- This process is important for the synthesis of molecules like DNA.
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7. What is the Cas9 protein that is often mentioned in the news?
(a) A molecular scissors used in targeted gene editing
(b) A biosensor used in the accurate detection of pathogens in patients
(c) A gene that makes plants pest-resistant
(d) A herbicidal substance synthesized in genetically modified crops
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2019]
Ans. (a) A molecular scissors used in targeted gene editing
- Cas9 is a protein that acts like a pair of scissors to cut strands of DNA.
- It is used in gene editing, which involves using a complex of Cas9 and a special type of RNA to cut the cell’s genome in a specific place.
- This technique is taken from the natural defense systems of bacteria and archaea.
- By using it, it is possible to delete existing genes and/or add new ones.
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8. ‘RNA interference (RNAi)’ technology has gained popularity in the last few years. Why?
1. It is used in developing gene silencing therapies.
2. It can be used in developing therapies for the treatment of cancer.
3. It can be used to develop hormone replacement therapies.
4. It can be used to produce crop plants that are resistant to viral pathogens.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1, 2 and 4
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1 and 4 only
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2019]
Ans. (a) 1, 2 and 4
- RNAi is a way of stopping certain genes from working or being expressed.
- It is being studied as a potential treatment for various diseases, including HIV/AIDS, hepatitis, Huntington’s disease, and cancer.
- Scientists have been able to create crops that can resist viruses using RNAi technology.
- Statements 1, 2, and 4 are true, but statement 3 is false because RNAi has no role in hormone replacement therapies.
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9. In the context of recent advances in human reproductive technology, “Pronuclear Transfer” is used for :
(a) fertilization of egg in vitro by the donor sperm
(b) genetic modification of sperm-producing cells
(c) development of stem cells into functional embryos
(d) prevention of mitochondrial diseases in spring
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2020]
Ans. (d) prevention of mitochondrial diseases in spring
- Pronuclear Transfer is a medical procedure that helps create a baby with three parents.
- It is used to prevent fatal diseases such as heart problems, liver failure, brain disorders, blindness, and muscular dystrophy in the baby.
- This technique is called ‘three-parent’ IVF because the baby will have genetic material from the mother, father, and a female donor.
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10. In the context of hereditary diseases, consider the following statements :
1. Passing on mitochondrial diseases from parent to child can be prevented by mitochondrial replacement therapy either before or after in vitro fertilization of the egg.
2. A child inherits mitochondrial diseases entirely from the mother and not from the father.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2021]
Ans. (a) 1 only
- MRT, also known as mitochondrial donation, is a process used to prevent or lessen the effects of a disease by replacing the mitochondria in one or more cells.
- It is done through a special type of IVF, where some or all of the baby’s mitochondrial DNA comes from a third party.
- This is done when the mother carries genes for a mitochondrial disease.
- This procedure is approved in the UK and there are three different methods:
- maternal spindle transfer
- pronuclear transfer
- polar body transfer
- This is done either before or shortly after fertilization before the egg becomes an embryo.
- Typically, mitochondrial DNA is inherited from the mother only, but some individuals have been found to inherit from both parents.
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11. Assertion (A): Dolly was the first cloned mammal.
Reason (R): Dolly was produced by in-vitro fertilization.
(a) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)
(b) Both (A) and (R) are true but (R) is not a correct explanation of (A).
(c) (A) is true but (R) is false.
(d) (A) is false but (R) is true.
[I.A.S. (Pre) 1999]
Ans. (c) (A) is true but (R) is false.
- Dolly was made on July 5, 1996, by Ian Wilmut, Keith Campbell, and their team at the Roslin Institute of Scotland.
- She was the first mammal to ever be cloned from an adult somatic cell.
- Dolly was created using a regular cloning process, not with in-vitro fertilization.
- In-vitro fertilization is usually used to help people with infertility issues.
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12. Which of the facts about Dolly (sheep), the first mammal cloned from an adult somatic cell is not correct?
(a) Dolly died in the year 2003
(b) Dolly died due to lung disease
(c) Dolly was born in the year 1998
(d) Dolly was born in Scotland.
[R.A.S./R.T.S. (Pre) 2016]
Ans. (c) Dolly was born in the year 1998
- Dolly was a female sheep that was made from a grown-up cell at the University of Edinburgh, Scotland.
- She was born on July 5th, 1996, and died on February 14th, 2003 from a lung problem 5 months before her 7th birthday.
- Option(c) is not correct.
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13. Which of the following is the first living cloned genetically engineered organism by humans –
(a) Dolly
(b) Herman bull
(c) Bony
(d) Superbug
[U.P. Lower Sub. (Pre) 2002]
Ans. (a) Dolly
- Dolly was the first mammal to be cloned from an adult body cell.
- She was born at the University of Edinburgh, Scotland on July 5th 1996, and passed away on February 14th 2003 due to a lung illness, five months before her seventh birthday.
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14. Which one was the first successful cloned animal?
(a) Sheep
(b) Gibbon
(c) Rabbit
(d) None of the above
[Jharkhand P.C.S. (Pre) 2013]
Ans. (a) Sheep
- Dolly was a female sheep that was the first animal ever cloned from an adult body cell.
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15. Scientists of N.D.R.I., Karnal (Haryana) developed the second clone of which on the following animals?
(a) Sheep
(b) Gibbon
(c) Cow
(d) Goat
[M.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2012]
Ans. (b) Gibbon
- On February 6, 2009, the first-ever cloned buffalo calf, Samrupa, was born at NDRI, Karnal using a special cloning technique.
- On June 6, 2009, the second cloned calf, Garima, was born weighing 43kg.
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16. Garima II is the name of a –
(a) Cloned buffalo
(b) Cloned cow
(c) Cloned sheep
(d) Bttomato
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2009]
Ans. (a) Cloned buffalo
- The scientists at the NDRI in Karnal were successful in creating a clone of a buffalo called Garima II on August 22nd, 2010.
- Garima II gave birth to a healthy female calf named Mahima at the NDRI on January 25th, 2013.
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17. Which country has produced the first transgenic glowing pigs that are all green from the inside out?
(a) Korea
(b) Japan
(c) Singapore
(d) Taiwan
[U.P.P.S.C.(GIC) 2010]
Ans. (d) Taiwan
- In 2006, scientists from National Taiwan University created the first pig that glowed green.
- They did this by adding a glowing green protein to the embryo of three male pigs.
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18. Injaz, is the name of the world’s first clone:
(a) Camel
(b) Goat
(c) Pig
(d) Sheep
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2008]
Ans. (a) Camel
- In Dubai, United Arab Emirates, the world’s first female cloned camel, called Injaz, was created in the Camel Reproduction Centre.
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19. Which of the following statements about a clone of an organism is correct?
(a) A clone has characteristics of both its parents
(b) A clone is produced asexually
(c) Identical twins are clones of an organism
(d) Two clones of an organism may not be identical
[R.A.S./R.T.S.(Pre) 2003]
Ans. (b) A clone is produced asexually
- A clone is an organism whose genetic information is exactly the same as its parent.
- Clones are made through a process called cloning and they are identical to the original organism in every way.
- Identical twins are not clones and two clones of the same organism will be completely identical.
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20. In the case of a test-tube baby –
(a) Fertilization takes place inside the test-tube
(b) Development of the baby takes place inside the test
(c) Fertilization takes place outside the mother’s body
(d) Unfertilised egg develops inside the test tube.
[I.A.S. (Pre) 1994]
Ans. (c) Fertilization takes place outside the mother’s body
- Women who can’t get pregnant naturally can have their eggs artificially fertilized.
- This process is called in-vitro fertilization (IVF) and the baby born from it is called a “test-tube baby”.
- Instead of the sperm and egg meet naturally in the fallopian tubes, they are combined in a petri dish outside of the mother’s body.
- The fertilized embryos are then placed in the mother’s uterus after 16 to 48 hours to create a new life.
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21. Consider the following effects of genetic engineering :
1. Disease resistance
2. Growth promotion
3. Animal cloning
4. Human cloning
Of the above, that have been tried with a certain amount of success include :
(a) 1, 3 and 4
(b) 2, 3 and 4
(c) 1, 2 and 4
(d) 1, 2 and 3
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2003, U.P.P.C.S.(Pre) 2001]
Ans. (d) 1, 2 and 3
- Scientists have used genetic engineering to make animals more resistant to disease and grow faster, and even to clone them.
- But when it comes to cloning humans, the results have not been successful due to the controversy and the fact that it is illegal.
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22. Match List-I with List-II and select the correct answer using the codes given below :
| List-I (Achievement in Genetics) |
List II (Scientists) |
| A. Discovery of transduction and conjugation in bacteria |
1. Khorana |
| B. Establishing the sex-linked inheritance |
2. Korenberg |
| C. Isolation of DNA polymerase from |
3. Lederberg |
| D. Establishing the complete genetic code |
4. Morgan |
| E. coli |
5. Ochoa |
Code :
|
A |
B |
C |
D |
| (a) |
4 |
3 |
2 |
1 |
| (b) |
3 |
4 |
1 |
5 |
| (c) |
4 |
3 |
1 |
5 |
| (d) |
3 |
4 |
2 |
1 |
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2001]
Ans. (d) 3421
- Bacterial conjugation is the process of transferring genetic material between bacterial cells either through direct contact or with a bridge-like connection.
- This was first discovered in 1946 by Joshua Lederberg and Edward Tatum.
- Morgan was the first to find out that the chromosome carries genetic information and used fruit flies with eye color mutations to prove this.
- In 1956, Arthur Kornberg discovered the first known DNA polymerase which was first identified in E. coli and is found in all prokaryotes.
- Hargobind Khorana, an Indian-American biochemist, won the Nobel Prize in 1968 for showing how the order of nucleotides in nucleic acids, which stores genetic information, controls how proteins are made in the cell.
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23. At present, scientists can determine the arrangement or relative positions of genes or DNA sequences on a
chromosome. How does this knowledge benefit us?
1. It is possible to know the pedigree of livestock.
2. It is possible to understand the causes of all human diseases.
3. It is possible to develop disease-resistant animal breeds.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 3
(d) 1, 2 and 3
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2011]
Ans. (c) 1 and 3
- DNA sequencing can be used to treat some genetic diseases, like Alzheimer’s, Cystic Fibrosis, and Myotonic Dystrophy.
- However, this cannot be used to understand the causes of all human diseases, so Statement 2 is not true.
- The other two statements are true.
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24. The sequencing of the entire genes of an organism was done in 1996. That organism was –
(a) Albinistic mouse
(b) Yeast
(c) Human being
(d) Plasmodium vivax
[I.A.S. (Pre) 1997]
Ans. (b) Yeast
- In 1996, the genome of the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae was sequenced for the first time from a eukaryote.
- It was a huge project, with hundreds of researchers from all around the world working on it.
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25. World level program ‘Human Genome Project’ is related to –
(a) Establishment of Superman society
(b) Identification of color-distinct breeds
(c) Genetic improvements in human breeds
(d) Identification and mapping of human genes and their sequence
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2001]
Ans. (d) Identification and mapping of human genes and their sequence
- The Human Genome Project is an international program that figures out and charts the genes and their sequences that make up a human being.
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26. The cells that have the capacity to divide and differentiate into any type of cells in the body are the focus of research on several serious diseases that are
(a) Bud cells
(b) Red cells
(c) Mesangial cells
(d) Stem cells
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2006]
Ans. (d) Stem cells
- Stem cells are very special because they can grow into many different kinds of cells in the body, like brain cells, and also have the ability to make more stem cells.
- There are different types of stem cells embryonic, induced pluripotent, and adult or somatic stem cells.
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27. With reference to ‘stem cells’, frequently in the news, which of the following statement(s) is/are correct?
1. Stem cells can be derived from mammals only.
2. Stem cells can be used for screening new drugs.
3. Stem cells can be used for medical therapies.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 2 and 3
(c) Only 3
(d) 1, 2 and 3
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2012]
Ans. (b) 2 and 3
- Stem cells are special cells that can turn into different types of cells and multiply.
- They are found in animals with more than one cell.
- In mammals, there are two kinds of stem cells:
- those from embryos
- those from adults
- Stem cells can be used in medical treatments like bone marrow transplants and to test new drugs.
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28. With reference to the latest developments in stem cell research, consider the following statements :
1. The only source of human stem cells is the embryos at the blastocyst stage.
2. The stem cells can be derived without causing destruction to blastocysts.
3. The stem cells can regenerate themselves in vitro virtually forever.
4. Indian research centers also created a few cell lines that can be developed into many types of tissues.
Which of these statements are correct?
(a) 1, 2, 3 and 4
(b) 1, 2 and 3
(c) 1, 3 and 4
(d) 3 and 4
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2002]
Ans. (d) 3 and 4
- Stem cells are divided into two types depending on where they come from:
- somatic stem cells (SSCs)
- embryonic stem cells (ESCs)
- SSCs can be found in a fetus, umbilical cord, placenta, infant, child, or adult, and in different organs/tissues.
- ESCs come from pre-implantation embryos.
- Making human ESCs requires getting rid of embryos outside the womb.
- The stem cells can keep regenerating in lab conditions for a long time.
- Indian research centers even made some cell lines that can turn into different kinds of tissues.
- So, only statements 3 and 4 are correct.
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29. Which one of the following statements is not true with regard to the transplantation of stem cells in animals?
(a) They multiply themselves throughout the lifespan of an animal
(b) They repair the damaged tissues of the organs
(c) They have the capacity to produce one or more types of specialized cells
(d) They are found only in the embryo
[R.A.S./R.T.S.(Pre) 2007]
Ans. (d) They are found only in the embryo
- Stem cells are divided into two types – Somatic Stem Cells (SSCs), which come from different parts of the body such as the fetus, umbilical cord, placenta, infant, child, or adult; and Embryonic Stem Cells (ESCs) which come from pre-implantation embryos.
- To get human ESCs, the embryo needs to be destroyed.
- The stem cells can create new cells in a lab over and over again.
- Some research centers in India have also made cell lines that can be turned into different types of tissue.
- So, only statements 3 and 4 are correct.
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30. Which one of the following is the bioethically noncontroversial source of stem cells as an alternative to the highly controversial embryonic stem cells?
(a) Bone marrow-derived stem cells
(b) Amniotic f uid derived stem cells
(c) Blood of fetus
(d) Blood of babies
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2008]
Ans. (a) Bone marrow-derived stem cells
- Stem cells are cells that can turn into different types of cells and can reproduce.
- They are found in living organisms.
- Humans have three ways to get stem cells from their own bodies:
- bone marrow (which is taken out by drilling into the bone)
- fat (which is taken out by suction), and blood (which is taken out by a machine)
- This can be used instead of using stem cells from embryos.
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31. Consider the following statements:
1. Genetic changes can be introduced in the cells that produce eggs or sperm of a prospective parent.
2. A person’s genome can be edited before birth at the early embryonic stage.
3. Human-induced pluripotent stem cells can be injected into the embryo of a pig.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 2 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2020]
Ans. (d) 1, 2 and 3
- Researchers have used the gene-editing tool CRISPR-Cas9 to change the genes of a parent’s eggs and sperm.
- They also demonstrated that by using this tool, they could fix a mutation in a human embryo.
- Further, researchers from different places showed that human stem cells could be injected into the embryo of a pig or other animals.
- In 2019, Japan changed its regulations about implanting human cells into animals.
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32. What is the application of Somatic Cell Nuclear Transfer Technology?
(a) Production of Biolarvicides
(b) Manufacture of biodegradable plastics
(c) Reproductive cloning of animals
(d) Production of organisms free of diseases
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2017]
Ans. (c) Reproductive cloning of animals
- SCNT is a process used for both embryonic stem cell research and regenerative medicine, also known as ‘therapeutic cloning’.
- It can also be used as the first step in reproductive cloning.
- To do this, the nucleus of a somatic cell is put into an egg cell that has had its nucleus removed.
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33. Hybridoma technology is a new biotechnological approach for commercial production of :
(a) Monoclonal antibodies
(b) Interferon
(c) Antibiotics
(d) Alcohol
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2000]
Ans. (a) Monoclonal antibodies
- Hybridoma technology is a process of creating hybrid cells (called hybridomas) by combining an antibody-making B cell with a cancerous B cell that can grow in a lab and does not produce antibodies.
- The antibodies created by the hybridoma are all specific to one thing and are known as monoclonal antibodies (unlike polyclonal antibodies).
- This technology was invented by Cpsar Milstein and Georges J.F. K|hler in 1975.
- They won the Nobel Prize in 1984 for their work in immunology, along with Niels Kaj Jerne who contributed to the field.
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34. The Plant Field Gene Bank at Banthara will :
(a) Preserve endangered varieties of plants
(b) Check piracy of bio-diversity
(c) Identify economically important wild plants
(d) Look after all the above
[U.P.P.C.S.(Pre) 2003, U.P.P.C.S.(Pre) 2001]
Ans. (d) Look after all the above
- The Plant Field Gene Bank at Banthara will protect plants that are at risk of disappearing, stop people from stealing plants, and identify plants that are valuable for economic reasons.
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35. Consider the following statements :
1. According to the Indian Patents Act, a biological process to create seed can be patented in India.
2. In India, there is no Intellectual Property Appellate Board.
3. Plant varieties are not eligible to be patented in India.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2019]
Ans. (c) 3 only
- The Patents Act of India states that plants and animals, including seeds, varieties, and species, and processes for producing or propagating them, cannot be patented in India.
- Thus, statement 1 is false, statement 2 is false because the Intellectual Property Appellate Board was created in 1958 to decide disputes under the Copyright Act, and statement 3 is correct.
- Another Intellectual Property Appellate Board was created in 2003 to handle appeals for the Trade Marks Act and the Geographical Indications of Goods Act.
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36. Insect-resistant cotton plants have been genetically engineered by inserting a gene from a/an :
(a) Virus
(b) Bacterium
(c) Insect
(d) Plant
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2000]
Ans. (b) Bacterium
- Scientists have genetically modified cotton plants to be resistant to insects by using a gene from the bacteria Bacillus thuringiensis.
- This bacteria produces toxins that are harmful to insects, and this type of cotton is known as Bt. cotton.
- The American company Monsanto created this variety of cotton.
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37. The American multinational company, Monsanto, has produced an insect-resistant cotton variety that is undergoing field trials in India. A toxin gene from which one of the following bacteria has been transferred to this transgenic cotton?
(a) Bacillus subtilis
(b) Bacillus thuringiensis
(c) Bacillus amyloliquifaciens
(d) Bacillus globigii
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2001]
Ans. (b) Bacillus thuringiensis
- Scientists have used genetic engineering to make cotton plants that are resistant to insects.
- They inserted a gene from a type of bacteria called Bacillus thuringiensis, which produces toxins that hurt different types of insects.
- This type of cotton is known as Bt. cotton and is made by the company Monsanto.
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38. The micro-organism which is associated with the production of Bt cotton is a
(a) Fungus
(b) Bacterium
(c) Blue-green algae
(d) Virus
[U.P.P.C. S (Pre) 2010]
Ans. (b) Bacterium
- Scientists have genetically modified cotton plants to resist insects by adding a gene from a type of bacteria called Bacillus thuringiensis.
- This bacteria produces toxins that hurt certain bugs, and this type of cotton is known as Bt. cotton.
- It was created by the company Monsanto.
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39. Assertion (A): Insect-resistant transgenic cotton has been produced by inserting the Bt gene.
Reason (R): The Bt gene is derived from a bacterium.
Code :
(a) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
(b) Both (A) and (R) are true (R) is not a correct explanation of (A).
(c) (A) is true but (R) is true.
(d) (A) is false but (R) is true.
[I.A.S. (Pre) 1999]
Ans. (a) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)
- Scientists have developed a type of cotton plant that is resistant to bugs by inserting a gene from a type of bacteria called Bacillus thuringiensis.
- This bacteria produces toxins that kill certain insects, and this kind of cotton is often referred to as Bt. cotton.
- The American company Monsanto has created this type of cotton.
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40. Bollgard I and Bollgard II technologies are mentioned in the context of :
(a) clonal propagation of crop plants
(b) developing genetically modified crop plants
(c) production of plant growth substances
(d) production of biofertilizers
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2021]
Ans. (b) developing genetically modified crop plants
- Bollgard I and II cotton are crop technologies approved for commercialization in India by the Genetic Engineering Approval Committee in 2002 and 2006 respectively.
- Bollgard I contains an insecticidal protein from a soil microorganism that helps protect cotton from American Bollworm Heliothis Armigera.
- Bollgard II contains two genes, Cry 1 Ac and Cry 2 Ab, which protect against bollworms and Spodoptera caterpillars, leading to better yields and lower pesticide costs.
- Both Bollgard I and II are planted around the world to protect against bollworms in an environmentally friendly way.
|
41. A genetically engineered form of brinjal, known as the Bt. brinjal has been developed. The objective of this is –
(a) To make it pest-resistant
(b) To improve its taste and nutritive qualities
(c) To make it drought-resistant
(d) To make its shelf-life longer
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2011]
Ans. (a) To make it pest-resistant
- Bt. brinjal is a type of brinjal that has been modified by taking a gene from a soil bacterium called Bacillus thuringiensis and adding it.
- This is to make the brinjal resistant to certain insects.
- This has caused a lot of debate in India, with some believing it will be beneficial, while others worry about the possible negative impacts it could have on health, livelihoods and biodiversity.
- Despite trials being done from 2002-2006, a ban was put in place in 2010.
|
42. Bt brinjal is –
(a) A new variety of Brinjal
(b) A genetically modified Brinjal
(c) A wild variety of Brinjal
(d) None of the above
[Uttarakhand Lower Sub. (Pre) 2010]
Ans. (b) A genetically modified Brinjal
- Bt. brinjal is a type of brinjal that has a gene called ‘Cry 1 Ac’ added to it, which comes from a bacteria found in the soil.
- This Bt. brinjal is resistant to certain insects, and this has caused a lot of debate in India.
- Supporters say it will benefit farmers because it increases yields, but opponents worry about potential negative impacts on human health, jobs and biodiversity.
- Despite field trials from 2002-2006, a ban was put in place in India in 2010.
|
43. Consider the given statements –
1. BT brinjal is created by inserting in its genome, the gene of soil fungus.
2. The seeds of BT brinjal are terminator seeds so farmers have to buy them before every weather from seed companies.
3. This is also a fact that it can affect the user’s health negatively.
4. The other threat is that its insertion may affect adversely bio-diversity.
Choose the right answer according to these codes:
(a) Only 1, 2 & 3
(b) Only 2 & 3
(c) Only 3, 4
(d) 1, 2, 3 & 4
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2012]
Ans. (c) Only 3, 4
- Bt. brinjal is a type of eggplant that has been genetically modified by adding a gene from a soil bacterium called ‘Bacillus thuringiensis’ to make it resistant to certain insects.
- This has caused a lot of debate in India as some people think it will be helpful to small farmers by increasing yields, but others worry about the potential negative impact it could have on human health, biodiversity, and people’s livelihoods.
- Despite trials conducted from 2002-2006, the Indian government issued a ban on Bt. brinjal in 2010.
|
44. With reference to the Genetically Modified mustard(GM mustard) developed in India, consider the following statements :
1. GM mustard has the genes of a soil bacterium that give the plant the property of pest resistance to a wide variety of pests.
2. GM mustard has the genes that allow the plant cross-pollination and hybridization.
3. GM mustard has been developed jointly by the IARI and Punjab Agricultural University.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2018]
Ans. (b) 2 only
- Prof. Deepak Pental from the University of Delhi created a genetically modified version of the mustard species Brassica juncea, called Dhara Mustard Hybrid-11 (DMH-11).
- His goal was to reduce India’s need for imported edible oils.
- He and his team used genes from a soil bacterium, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, to give the mustard the ability to cross-pollinate and hybridize.
- They then crossed an Indian variety of mustard with a European one to make a new hybrid called DMH-11.
- This hybrid was created by scientists at the Center for Genetic Manipulation of Crop Plants of Delhi University.
|
45. Other than resistance to pests, what are the prospects for which genetically engineered plants have been created?
1. To enable them to withstand drought.
2. To increase the nutritive value of the produce.
3. To enable them to grow and do photosynthesis in spaceships and space stations.
4. To increase their shelf life.
Select the correct answer using the code given below
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 3 and 4
(c) 1, 2 and 4
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2012]
Ans. (c) 1, 2 and 4
- Genetically modified crops (GMCs, GM crops, or biotech crops) are plants used in farming that have been changed using genetic engineering.
- This is usually done to add a trait to the plant that it wouldn’t normally have.
- Examples of this could be making it resistant to certain pests, diseases, or other conditions; making it last longer; or making it more nutritious.
|
46. With reference to agriculture in India, how can the technique of ‘genome sequencing’, often seen in the news, be used in the immediate future?
1. Genome sequencing can be used to identify genetic markers for disease resistance and drought tolerance in various crop plants.
2. This technique helps in reducing the time required to develop new varieties of crop plants.
3. It can be used to decipher the host-pathogen relationship in crops.
Select the correct answer using the code given below :
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2017]
Ans. (d) 1, 2 and 3
- Genome sequencing is very important for farming.
- It can be used to find genetic markers that can help us create crops that are resistant to disease and drought.
- It can also help us make new types of crops more quickly, and understand how plants and diseases interact.
|
47. Consider the following statements and choose the correct ones using the codes given below :
A . The flavr-savr tomato was the first genetically engineered crop product to be commercialized.
B . Ripe fruits of fl avr-savr remain firm for a longer duration and can be transported to market after
vine-ripening.
C . Ripe fruits of flavr-savr have color but not the full array of vine-ripened tomato flavors.
Code :
(a) B and C
(b) A, B, and C
(c) A and B
(d) A and C
[R.A.S./R.T.S. (Pre) 2016]
Ans. (c) A and B
- The Flavr-savr tomato was the first genetically engineered food approved for human consumption.
- Scientists changed the tomato by adding an extra version of a gene called PG.
- This gene caused the tomato to stay longer on the vine and have better taste and texture.
- As a result, the Flavr-savr tomatoes could be harvested and shipped while still being fresh and having a thick consistency for processing.
|
48. Consider the following techniques/ phenomena :
1. Budding and grafting in fruit plants
2. Cytoplasmic male sterility
3. Gene silencing
Which of the above is/are used to create transgenic crops?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3
(c) 1 and 3
(d) None
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2014]
Ans. (b) 2 and 3
- Using cytoplasmic male sterility and gene silencing, transgenic crops can be made.
- However, budding and grafting do not alter the genetic characteristics of plants.
|
49. Consider the following kinds of organisms :
1. Bacteria
2. Fungi
3. Flowering plants
Some species of which of the above kinds of organisms are employed as bio-pesticides?
(a) Only 1
(b) 2 and 3
(c) 1 and 3
(d) 1, 2 and 3
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2012]
Ans. (d) 1, 2 and 3
- Biopesticides are divided into 3 main types:
- Microbial pesticides use microorganisms (like bacteria, fungi, viruses, or protozoa) to control different kinds of pests.
- Each type of microorganism is specific to its target pests.
- For example, some fungi can control weeds, while others can kill specific insects.
- Neem is the most popular biopesticide among flowering plants.
|
50. Which one of the following is a microbial insecticide?
(a) Bacillus thuringiensis
(b) Bacillus subtilis
(c) Bacillus polymyxa
(d) Bacillus brevis
[Chhatisgarh P.C.S. (Pre) 2018]
Ans. (a) Bacillus thuringiensis
- Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is a type of bacteria that lives in the soil and produces a poison that can be deadly to some plant-eating insects.
- This poison has been used in insect sprays since 1920 and is often used in organic farming.
- Scientists have also used the toxin from Bt to modify certain food crops so they can produce the poison themselves, which helps to protect them from insects and pests.
- This toxin is deadly to butterflies, moths, flies, and beetles.
|
51. Bacillus thuringiensis is used as :
(a) Biofertilizer
(b) Biological insecticide
(c) Chemical fertilizer
(d) Chemical insecticide
[Uttarakhand P.C.S. (Pre) 2012]
Ans. (b) Biological insecticide
- Bacillus thuringiensis (or Bt) is a type of bacteria that lives in the soil and is often used as a natural pesticide.
|
52. Indian farmers are unsatisfied with terminator seed technology because it increases the possibility of-
(a) Appearance of bad germination
(b) Making little yield in spite of high-quality plants
(c) Growing sterile plants (sexually)
(d) Growing of plants which are not capable of producing germinable seeds
[I.A.S. (Pre) 1999]
Ans. (d) Growing of plants which are not capable of producing germinable seeds
- Indian farmers are not happy with the use of terminator seed technology.
- This technology uses a tri-gene to stop the growth of plants that are not able to produce germinable seeds.
- The first gene stops the embryo from germinating, while the second gene produces an enzyme that regulates when the first gene will be activated.
- The third gene controls the enzyme.
|
53. The controversial terminator technology backed by developed nations seeks to provide :
(a) Biotechnologically improved variety of seeds which are ensured to yield sterile seeds for next-generation
(b) Transgenic seeds which ensure no-terminating passage of good traits generation after generation
(c) Selective termination of crop diseases
(d) Hybrid seeds that can be eaten but not grown
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 1999]
Ans. (a) Biotechnologically improved variety of seeds which are ensured to yield sterile seeds for next-generation
- Indian farmers are not pleased with terminator seed technology because it makes it easier to grow plants that cannot produce seeds.
- This technology uses a three-gene system.
- The first gene prevents the embryo from germinating, the second gene produces a recombinase enzyme which decides when the first gene will be activated and the third gene controls the recombinase.
|
54. Terminator technology promotes the sale of which of the following that is/are generated by it?
(a) Transgenic fertile seed
(b) Gene modified plants
(c) Genetically engineered seeds sterile in next generation
(d) All of the above
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2004]
Ans. (d) All of the above
- Indian farmers are not pleased with the Terminator Seed Technology because it increases the chances of growing plants that are unable to make viable seeds.
- This technology works by inserting a three-gene sequence.
- The first gene stops the embryo from being able to germinate.
- The second gene produces an enzyme that controls when the first gene will be activated, and the third gene controls the enzyme.
|
55. Which of the following is a transgenic plant?
(a) Buckwheat
(b) Macaroni wheat
(c) Golden rice
(d) Triticale
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2012]
Ans. (c) Golden rice
- Golden rice is a genetically modified type of rice (Oryza sativa) that produces beta-carotene, which is a form of Vitamin A.
- The goal of this research is to create fortified food to be grown and eaten in areas with a lack of Vitamin A, which is the main cause of blindness in children worldwide.
- The consumption of this rice rich in beta-carotene should help improve the health of poor children around the world.
|
56. Assertion (A): ‘Golden rice’ is a biotechnological achievement to the benefit of consumers as much as the farmers.
Reason (R): The yellow color of this rice reflects a high level of beta carotene, a compound that is converted to vitamin A in the body.
Code :
(a) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
(b) Both (A) and (R) are true but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A).
(c) (A) is true but (R) is false.
(d) (A) is false but (R) is true.
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2000]
Ans. (a) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
- Golden rice is a type of rice (Oryza sativa) that has been genetically modified so that it can produce beta-carotene, a source of vitamin A, in the edible parts of the rice.
- This research was done to make food available to people in areas with a lack of vitamin A, which is the most common cause of blindness in children.
- This type of rice, which is enriched with beta-carotene, is expected to improve the health of children in poverty-stricken areas.
|
57. Golden rice is –
(a) Wild variety of rice with yellow-coloured grains
(b) A variety of rice grown along the Yellow River in China
(c) Long stored rice having yellow color tint
(d) A transgenic rice having the gene for carotene
[R.A.S./R.T.S. (Pre) 2013]
Ans. (d) A transgenic rice having the gene for carotene
- Golden rice is a type of rice that has been genetically modified to produce beta-carotene, which is a form of Vitamin A.
- This was done in order to help people in areas with a lack of Vitamin A, which is the leading cause of blindness in children globally.
- The hope is that this rice, which is rich in beta-carotene, will help to improve the health of disadvantaged children around the world.
|
58. The prime utility of ‘Golden Rice’ in combating vitamin-A deficiency, the world’s leading cause of blindness which affects about 250 million children lies in the richness of its kernel in –
(a) Beta carotene
(b) Thiamine
(c) Ascorbic acid
(d) Calciferol
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2002]
Ans. (a) Beta carotene
- Golden rice is a type of rice (Oryza sativa) that has been modified through genetic engineering to produce beta-carotene, a source of vitamin A.
- This research aims to provide fortified food for areas with a shortage of dietary vitamin A, which is the main cause of childhood blindness.
- Eating this enriched rice has the potential to improve the health of children in poverty.
|
59. Golden rice is rich in –
(a) Vitamin A
(b) Vitamin B
(c) Vitamin C
(d) Vitamin D
[U.P.P.C.S. (Spl) (Mains) 2008, U.P.R.O./A.R.O. (Mains) 2014, U.P. P.C.S. (Mains) 2016, U.P.P.C.S (Pre) 2011]
Ans. (a) Vitamin A
- Golden rice is a type of rice (Oryza sativa) that has been altered using genetic engineering to contain more beta-carotene, which is a source of vitamin A.
- This research was done to create a food that could be grown and eaten in areas with a lack of vitamin A, which is the main cause of blindness in children.
- This type of rice can help improve the health of poor children around the world.
|
60. For which desirable character the transgenic crop ‘Golden Rice’ is produced?
(a) Vitamin A
(b) Essential Amino Acids
(c) Insulin
(d) Characteristic Starch
[R.A.S./R.T.S.(Pre) 2008]
Ans. (a) Vitamin A
- Golden rice is a special type of rice created through genetic engineering.
- It is designed to produce a form of Vitamin A called beta-carotene in the edible parts of the rice.
- The research is aimed at helping people in areas with a lack of Vitamin A, which is a major cause of blindness in children.
- This type of rice has the potential to improve the health of children in poorer countries.
|
61. The Golden Rice contains the β-carotene gene which comes from –
(a) Carrot
(b) Daffodil
(c) Beetroot
(d) Papaya
[Jharkhand P.C.S. (Pre) 2016]
Ans. (b) Daffodil
- Professors Ingo Potrikus and Peter Beyer made a breakthrough in biotechnology with their invention of Golden Rice.
- This rice is yellow in color and has three genes added to its genome:
- two from daffodils
- one from Erwinia uredovora.
- These three genes produce enzymes that turn naturally occurring compounds into immature rice embryos containing Geranylgeranyl-diphosphate (GGDP) and beta-carotene.
- When our bodies absorb beta-carotene, it is converted to vitamin A, which is beneficial for our eyes.
|
62. Which of the following pairs is NOT correctly matched?
(a) Renneting-Cheese
(b) Genetic Engineering-Plasmids
(c) Golden rice-Vitamin A
(d) Ozone layer-troposphere
U.P. P.C.S. (Pre) 2018
Ans. (d) Ozone layer-troposphere
- The ozone layer is a part of the atmosphere that stops most of the Sun’s UV rays from reaching the Earth.
- Renneting is a method of turning milk into cheese.
- Plasmids are found in bacteria and are used in genetic engineering.
- Golden Rice is a type of rice that has been modified to contain more vitamin A.
|
63. ‘Super rice’ was developed by –
(a) M.S. Swaminathan
(b) G.S. Khush
(c) N.E. Borlog
(d) P.K. Gupta
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2007]
Ans. (b) G.S. Khush
- Gurdev Singh Khush, a chief breeder from the International Rice Research Institute in the Philippines, created a type of rice called “super rice”.
- This research was started in 1989. Gurdev is an agronomist and geneticist and was awarded the 1996 World Food Prize along with his mentor Henry Beachell for increasing the global rice supply while the population grew quickly.
|
64. Amniocentesis is a method used to determine the
(a) Foetal sex
(b) Kind of amino acids
(c) Sequence of amino acids in protein
(d) Type of hormones
[U.P.P.C.S (Pre) 2011]
Ans. (a) Foetal sex
- Amniocentesis (also called an amniotic fluid test or AFT) is a medical procedure used to check for certain birth defects, infections, and to determine the gender of the baby.
- A sample of the fluid that surrounds the baby in the womb is taken and the fetal DNA is tested for any genetic issues.
|
65. In the context of the developments in Bioinformatics, the term ‘transcriptome’, sometimes seen in the news,
refers to :
(a) a range of enzymes used in genome editing
(b) the full range of mRNA molecules expressed by an organism
(c) the description of the mechanism of gene expression
(d) a mechanism of genetic mutations taking place in cells
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2016]
Ans. (b) the full range of mRNA molecules expressed by an organism
- The transcriptome is the complete set of all mRNA molecules that come from the genes of a living thing.
- Unlike the genome, which usually stays the same unless there is a mutation, the transcriptome can change depending on the environment it is in.
|
66. Who synthesized the DNA in vitro?
(a) Arthur Kornberg
(b) Robert Hooke
(c) Edward Jenner
(d) Joseph Lister
[56th to 59th B.P.S.C. (Pre) 2015]
Ans. (a) Arthur Kornberg
- Arthur Kornberg made DNA in a laboratory, and because of this, he won the Nobel Prize for Physiology or Medicine in 1959 for finding out how DNA is made in living things.
|
67. Biochip contains –
(a) RNA
(b) DNA
(c) RNA and DNA
(d) RNA, DNA and Protein
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2008]
Ans. (d) RNA, DNA and Protein
- The biochip is a tiny chip made to work in living things.
- It is becoming more and more popular for genetic testing, finding medicine, and scientific research.
- In addition to chips made from DNA and RNA, there are also chips made from proteins being made more often.
|
68. Genico Technology is –
(a) Defence system for prevention from AIDS
(b) A method for the development of species for food crops
(c) Technique for pre-information regarding genetic diseases
(d) Technique for prevention of cataracts
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 1999]
Ans. (c) Technique for pre-information regarding genetic diseases
- Genico Technology is a way of finding out ahead of time if a fetus has a genetic disease.
- It can be used to do prenatal testing for diseases.
|
69. Which work among these falls into the category of Biotechnology?
(a) Use of the organism or their substances in industrial processes
(b) Modernization of the process of commercial industries to produce the goods used in Bio-exploration
(c) Use of modern technology in research of biological mutilation
(d) Use of industrial technology to increase the biosphere
[I.A.S. (Pre) 1993]
Ans. (a) Use of the organism or their substances in industrial processes
- Biotechnology is the use of any living organism, its materials, or its processes for industrial purposes.
- For example, using yeast cells to make alcohol is an example of Biotechnology.
|
70. Which of the following has recently evolved in Genetic Engineering?
(a) Gene analysis
(b) Gene mapping
(c) Gene splicing
(d) Gene synthesis
[Uttarakhand P.C.S. (Pre) 2006]
Ans. (b) Gene mapping
- Gene Mapping is a new technology in genetic engineering.
- It is used to figure out where a gene is located on a chromosome and how far away it is from other genes.
- To make a genome map, you need to put different kinds of markers in the right spot on the genome.
- Genes are one kind of marker, and they are mapped the same way as the other markers.
|
71. Which of the following is used in genetic engineering?
(a) Plastid
(b) Plasmid
(c) Mitochondria
(d) Ribosome
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) (Re. Exam) 2015]
Ans. (b) Plasmid
- Bacteria can have genetic material that is not in their nucleus.
- This material, which contains DNA, is called plasmids.
- It can be transferred between cells of the same species and even different species and types.
- Plasmids are used in genetic engineering.
|
72. With reference to bacteriophages, which statement/s is/ are correct?
1. Bacteriophages are viruses that infect bacteria.
2. Bacteriophages are used in genetic engineering.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below :
Codes :
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both (1) and (2)
(d) Neither (1) nor (2)
[U.P. R.O./A.R.O. (Pre) 2017]
Ans. (c) Both (1) and (2)
- A bacteriophage is a type of virus that attacks bacteria and can be used to move pieces of genetic material from one organism to another.
|
73. If a rat is created by using a human growth gene, which is eight times bigger than a normal rat; then this technique
will be said as –
(a) Cross-breeding
(b) Genetic engineering
(c) Mutation reproduction
(d) Hormonal nourishing
[I.A.S. (Pre) 1993]
Ans. (b) Genetic engineering
- Genetic engineering is a process/technique that allows us to modify the size, quality, or even create a completely new organism.
|
74. Given :
1. Blood cells
2. Bone cells
3. Hair strands
4. Saliva
Samples taken for DNA testing in a criminal investigation can be –
(a) 1, 2 and 3 only
(b) 1 and 4 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2008]
Ans. (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
- Forensic DNA profiling is a way scientists use to tell people apart by looking at their DNA.
- It is often used for figuring out who a person’s father is and in criminal investigations.
- Samples that can be taken for DNA testing in criminal cases include blood, bone, hair, semen, and saliva.
|
75. Assertion (A): ‘DNA Fingerprinting’ has become a powerful tool to establish paternity and identity of criminals in rape and assault cases.
Reason (R): Trace evidence such as hairs, saliva, and dried semen are adequate for DNA analysis.
Code :
(a) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
(b) Both (A) and (R) are true but (R) is not a correct explanation of (A).
(c) (A) is true but (R) is false.
(d) (A) is false but (R) is true.
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2000, R.A.S./R.T.S. (Pre) 2013]
Ans. (a) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
- Forensic DNA profiling is a way scientists use to tell people apart by looking at their DNA.
- It is often used for figuring out who a person’s father is and in criminal investigations.
- Samples that can be taken for DNA testing in criminal cases include blood, bone, hair, semen, and saliva.
|
76. The basis of DNA fingerprinting is –
(a) The double helix
(b) Errors in the base sequence
(c) DNA replication
(d) DNA polymorphism
[R.A.S/R.T.S (Pre) 2018]
Ans. (d) DNA polymorphism
- DNA fingerprinting is a way to identify people by looking at the different parts of their DNA.
- Most of our DNA is the same, but there are some parts that vary from person to person.
- These differences are called polymorphisms and they are used for DNA fingerprinting.
- Since the same kind of DNA can be taken from different parts of the body, it is often used in legal cases.
- Also, these differences can be passed on from parents to children, so they are used for testing if someone is a person’s biological parent.
|
77. Which one of the following techniques can be used to establish the paternity of a child?
(a) Protein analysis
(b) Chromosome counting
(c) Quantitative analysis of DNA
(d) DNA fingerprinting
[U.P. U.D.A./L.D.A. (Spl.) (Pre) 2010, I.A.S. (Pre) 1997]
Ans. (d) DNA fingerprinting
- DNA fingerprinting is a way of identifying people based on small differences in their DNA.
- Most of our DNA is the same, but some parts can be different from one person to the next.
- These differences are called polymorphisms and they are used to create a DNA fingerprint.
- Since this fingerprint is the same for every part of the body (skin, blood, saliva, bone, hair, sperm, etc.), it is very helpful for solving crimes.
- It can also be used to check if someone is a parent of another person.
|
78. Which one of the given is useful for proving paternity?
(a) Gene therapy
(b) Gene cloning
(c) D.N.A. Recombinant technology
(d) D.N.A. fingerprinting
[U.P. Lower Sub. (Pre) 2002]
Ans. (d) D.N.A. fingerprinting
- DNA fingerprinting is a way to identify people based on their unique genetic code.
- Most of our DNA is the same, but certain parts of our DNA can be different from person to person.
- These differences are called polymorphisms and this is how DNA fingerprinting works.
- Since our DNA is the same in all of our body tissues (skin, blood, saliva, bone, hair, sperm, etc.), it can be used to identify people in forensic investigations.
- Plus, since our DNA is passed down to our children, it can also be used to determine paternity.
|
79. The latest technique used to establish the identity of a human being based on biotechnological principles is-
(a) Biomatrix analysis
(b) Genome sequencing
(c) DNA fingerprinting
(d) Karyotyping
[R.A.S./R.T.S.(Pre) 2012]
Ans. (c) DNA fingerprinting
- DNA fingerprinting is a way to identify someone by looking at the parts of their DNA that are different from other people.
- These are called polymorphisms and they are the same in all parts of a person’s body, like skin, blood, saliva, and hair.
- This makes them very useful for identifying people in legal cases.
- Plus, since these variations can be passed down from parents to their children, it helps with figuring out who someone’s parents are.
|
80. DNA fingerprinting is used in the following area(s) :
(a) Forensic cases
(b) Paternity dispute
(c) Conservation of endangered living beings
(d) All of the above
[U.P.P.C.S. (Spl.) (Mains) 2004]
Ans. (d) All of the above
- DNA fingerprinting is a way to identify people based on their DNA.
- Everyone has some DNA that is the same, but there are also parts that are different.
- These differences are called polymorphisms and they are what make DNA fingerprinting work.
- It can be used for many things, like finding out who someone’s parents are.
- Because DNA from different parts of the body is the same, it is useful for forensic investigations.
|
81. The first crime ever solved using the DNA fingerprinting technique was in England in the year
(a) 1963
(b) 1973
(c) 1983
(d) 1993
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2006]
Ans. (c) 1983
- DNA fingerprinting was first used in a legal case in 1983 in England to help solve the rape and murder of a girl.
|
82. In addition to fingerprint scanning, which of the following can be used in the biometric identification of a person?
1. Iris scanning 2. Retinal scanning
3. Voice recognition
Select the correct answer using the code given below :
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2014]
Ans. (d) 1, 2 and 3
- Biometrics are specific features that can be used to identify people.
- Examples of biometrics include fingerprints, facial features, DNA, palm prints, hand shape, iris patterns, eye scans, the way someone walks, and their voice.
- Therefore, iris scans, retinal scans, and voice recognition can be used to identify someone.
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83. The powder used for developing fingerprints on a multi-colored surface is –
(a) Gold dust
(b) Manganese dioxide
(c) Charcoal
(d) Fluorescent powder
[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2013]
Ans. (d) Fluorescent powder
- A type of organic powder that glows can be used to create fingerprints on smooth surfaces like plastics, glass, metals, and polybags.
- It also works on surfaces that have multiple colors and a shiny finish.
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84. Which one of the following is not achieved by transgenics?
(a) Production of biodegradable plastic
(b) Production of edible vaccines
(c) Production of cloned animals
(d) Production of transgenic crops
[U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 2000]
Ans. (c) Production of cloned animals
- Cloning is the process of making exact copies of living things that reproduce without sex.
- Transgenesis is when a gene from one organism is put into another organism to give it a new trait.
- Transgenic bacteria are used for making antibiotics, and new drugs, and to clean up the environment.
- Transgenic animals are used in research to figure out how genes work.
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85. Change in the base sequence within the gene is called :
(a) Breeding
(b) Cloning
(c) Mutation
(d) Fusion
[U.P. P.C.S. (Pre) 2016]
Ans. (c) Mutation
- A gene mutation is when the DNA sequence that makes up a gene is changed permanently.
- This change can be small, affecting just one part of the DNA, or it can be large, affecting multiple genes on a chromosome.
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86. When one gene controls two or more different characters simultaneously, the phenomenon is called :
(a) Apomixis
(b) Pleiotropy
(c) Polyploidy
(d) Polyteny
[I.A.S. (Pre) 2002]
Ans. (b) Pleiotropy
- Pleiotropy is when one gene affects different parts of a person’s body.
- An example is phenylketonuria, a disease that affects many systems but is caused by one problem with a gene.
- A mutation in a pleiotropic gene can affect a lot of things at the same time.
- Examples of pleiotropy include albinism and sickle cell anemia.
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87. In gene therapy, to correct the functioning of a faulty gene :
(a) Bad gene is eliminated
(b) Another good gene is inserted
(c) A defective gene is stopped from working
(d) The whole bad gene is replaced by a good gene
[U.P.P.C.S. (Spl) (Mains) 2004]
Ans. (c) A defective gene is stopped from working
- RGene therapy is a method used to fix genes that cause diseases.
- It puts healthy genetic material into cells to replace the bad gene or to make a helpful protein.
- If a gene is not working correctly, gene therapy can bring in a healthy copy of the gene to help the protein work properly.
- This therapy changes a bad gene or adds a new gene to try and cure the disease.
- It can do this by replacing the bad gene with a healthy one, turning off a bad gene, or putting a new or modified gene into the body to help with the disease.
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