Which of the following statements is/are correct?

I. The Bt toxin gene has been cloned from the bacteria.

II. Genetic engineering is only limited to animals and has not been successfully used on plants.

III. Strains of Bacillus thuringiensis are utilized in producing bioinsecticidal plants.

Iv. Genetic modification has increased the nutritional value of the food.

I, III and IV

I. The Bt toxin gene, derived from the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), has indeed been cloned. This gene is responsible for producing a protein toxic to certain insect pests.

II. Genetic engineering is a versatile technology that is not restricted to animals. It has been effectively applied to plants as well. Through genetic engineering, scientists can modify the genetic makeup of plants to introduce beneficial traits such as resistance to pests, tolerance to environmental stresses, improved nutritional content, and other desired characteristics.

III. Strains of Bacillus thuringiensis have been harnessed in the production of bioinsecticidal plants. In this process, the Bt toxin gene is incorporated into the plants, making them produce the Bt toxin protein. This protein is harmful to specific insect pests, providing the plants with inherent protection against those pests.

IV. Genetic modification has enabled the enhancement of the nutritional value of certain foods. One example is golden rice, which has been genetically modified to synthesize beta-carotene, a precursor of vitamin A. This modification has increased the nutritional content of the rice and can help combat vitamin A deficiency in regions where rice is a staple food.

Overall, genetic engineering and genetic modification have played a significant role in improving agricultural practices, increasing crop yields, reducing reliance on chemical pesticides, and enhancing the nutritional quality of food, contributing to global food security and sustainable agriculture.