Question

Biolistics (gene-gun) is suitable for
A. Transformation of plant cells
B. Constructing recombinant DNA by joining with vectors
C. DNA fingerprinting
D. Disarming pathogen vectors

Answer 1

Hint: A technique that is used to transfer the genes into the plant cells directly.

Complete answer:
A biolistic or gene gun is a technique of genetic engineering where the genes, DNA, RNA, or proteins are transferred to the plant cells without the use of any vectors. It results in the modification and transformation of the genetic information of the plant cells.

Additional Information: -The genetic material is coated with heavy metal and using the mechanical force the genes are fired into the cells.
-The object through which the genes are fired is called micro-projectiles.
-This technique is used to form an individual of desired genetic makeup.
-This technique involving micro-projectiles as guns is named as a gene gun.
-This technique helps transform any type of cell including the nucleus.
-It can also transform certain cell organelles like mitochondria and plastids.
-The DNA which is to be integrated is known as the DNA construct which contains all the required traits and elements.
-The cells in which the DNA construct is to be integrated is known as the target cells.

So, the correct answer is ‘Transformation of plant cells’.

Note: The technique was invented by various scientists including John. C. Sanford, Ed Wolf, and Nelson Allen from Cornell University in 1983. Another scientist of Du Pont Ted Klein also worked on it in 1986. The gene gun was earlier a Crosman air pistol which was modified such that it can fire tungsten particles. Onion cells were the first target cells on which this technique was used.