Practicing Success

Target Exam

CUET

Subject

Biology

Chapter

Biotechnology and its Applications

Question:

Read the passage and answer the following questions :

Genetic modification (GM) has been utilized to create custom-designed plants that serve as alternative resources for industries, producing starches, fuels, and pharmaceuticals. Biotechnology in agriculture has numerous applications, one of which involves developing pest-resistant plants to reduce the reliance on chemical pesticides. This is achieved by introducing the Bt toxin gene from the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) into plants, creating what is known as a bio-pesticide. Notable examples include Bt cotton, Bt corn, rice, tomato, potato, and soybean.Bt toxin is a naturally occurring insecticidal protein produced by certain strains of Bacillus thuringiensis. During a specific phase of their growth, these bacteria form protein crystals containing toxic substances. These crystals harbor inactive protoxins, which, when activated, become lethal to targeted insects. Different Bt toxin genes, such as cryIAc and cryIIAb, have been isolated and introduced into various crop plants, depending on the crop and the specific pests targeted, as Bt toxins are often insect-group specific. By incorporating these genes, plants gain inherent resistance to insects without the need for synthetic insecticides. This advancement in biotechnology has significant implications for sustainable and eco-friendly agricultural practices.

 

 

Which of the following is responsible for activation of protoxin to active Bt toxin of the Bacillus thuringiensis in boll worm?

Options:

Acidic pH of the gut .

Basic pH of the gut .

Alkaline pH of the gut .

Acidic pH of the intestine.

Correct Answer:

Alkaline pH of the gut .

Explanation:

Bt toxin protein exist as inactive protoxins but once an insect ingest the inactive toxin, it is converted into an active form of toxin due to the alkaline pH of the gut which solubilise the crystals.