Q171 / 180 · AIIMS 2017 · Zoology
Which one of the following is a correct statement?
- A"Bt" in "Bt-cotton" indicates that it is a genetically modified organism produced through biotechnology.
- BClassical plant breeding involves fusion of two somatic cells carrying desired genes.
- Correct answerCThe anticoagulant hirudin is being produced from transgenic Brassica napus seeds.
- DGolden rice is a transgenic variety of rice rich in vitamin $\mathrm{E}$.
Solution
Transgenic Brassica napus seeds are being used to produce the anticoagulant hirudin. $\mathrm{Bt}$ in "Bt Cotton" stands for Bacillus thuringiensis. This is naturally occurring soil bacterium. Classical plant breeding involves crossing or hybridisation of purelines, followed by artificial selection to produce plants with desirable traits whereas somatic hybridisation involves fusion of protoplast of two cells. Golden rice is a transgenic variety of rice rich in $\beta$-carotene (provitamin A - inactive state of vitamin A).
Hence, the correct answer is option: 'C'.