Question

PEG is used for
A. Fusion of protoplast
B. Cloning
C. Filling water and alcohol
D. Production of eggs

Answer 1

Hint:Polyethylene oxide is a nonionic ethylene oxide homopolymer. Polyethylene oxide is an effective bioadhesive polymer used as a binder.

Complete Answer:
The fusion of protoplasts is a physical process. During fusion, two or more protoplasts come into contact and bind to each other either naturally or in the midst of fusion-inducing chemicals. Upon adhesion, protoplast membranes fuse in some localised areas and finally the cytoplasm of the two protoplasts mix together. Protoplast fusion is a novel gene transfer method for the optimal efficiency and quantity of output. In this process, two protoplasts from different somatic cells are fused to create parasexual hybrid protoplasts.

Protoplast fusion allows the development of somatic hybrids. One cell may be induced to fuse with another cell to form heterokaryon, which comprises cytoplasms containing chloroplasts, mitochondria and nuclei from both parent cells. Protoplast fusion may be caused electrically or chemically by the addition of 20-40 per cent polyethylene glycol (PEG) or polyethylene oxide resulting in the aggregation of protoplasts and the dilution of polyethylene glycol resulting in the fusion of protoplasts.

Thus, the correct answer is A i.e., Fusing protoplast.

Note:Genetically modifying plants may have a huge effect on agriculture. Plants can be genetically engineered to express a bacterial toxin that is toxic to the larvae of a variety of insects. Genes reflecting useful traits, such as higher bioproduct productivity, enhanced protein content, heat and cold tolerance, can be passed from one species to another.