Question

The genetic material in Tobacco Mosaic Virus is RNA. Say True or False.
A)True
B)False

Answer 1

Hint: The virus is made up of protein coat called the capsid and the genetic material which is made up of DNA or RNA. The TMV belongs to genus Tobamovirus which infects tobacco and other members of family Solanaceae. TMV is the first identified pathogen.

Complete answer:
TMV is a thermostable virus which can withstand high temperature. TMV has a rod-like appearance. The capsid or the coat is made up of 2130 molecules of proteins. The TMV genome is made up of single stranded RNA which is around 6400 bases long.
Infection:

It is the first identified pathogen. The virus causes molding like mosaic patterns. It causes discolouration of the leaves. The TMV requires a host for multiplication. It enters the neighbouring cells through plasmodesmata. The TMV moves from cell-to-cell as RNA complex and replicates proteins. The TMV does not require a transmission vector. It can be easily transmitted from the infected host to the healthy plant.
The mRNA in the TMV codes many proteins which include coat proteins and RNA-dependent RNA polymerase and also movement protein. The TMV is able to replicate its own genome.

Hence, the correct answer is option ()

Note: TMV is the most stable virus known. It can withstand high temperatures. It can multiply only in the presence of a host. The TMV can be controlled through sanitisation. The TMV is used as the plant vector to deliver genetic material to the plant cells. It is also used as biomaterial and also in nanotechnology.