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Question #45323
The Question
A multinational corporation develops a transgenic variety of maize using Genetic Use Restriction Technology (GURTs), commonly known as 'terminator technology'. The inserted gene construct is designed to express a ribosome-inactivating protein specifically in the tissue formed by the fusion of the second male gamete with the secondary nucleus. Which of the following statements regarding the biological and socioeconomic implications of this transgenic crop is INCORRECT?
Options
- A.
The targeted tissue is the endosperm, which maintains a 3n ploidy derived from a strict 1:2 stoichiometric ratio of male to female nuclei.
- B.
The inducible promoter ensures the toxin blocks the initial triple fusion event, preventing the formation of the primary endosperm nucleus and the harvestable grain.
- C.
The destruction of this triploid nutritive tissue during late development renders the mature seed non-viable for future germination.
- D.
The commercial deployment of such technologies forces annual seed repurchasing, raising severe ethical concerns regarding multinational patent monopolies.
Check Your Answer
Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Regulatory_Failure
Understand how NOT, EXCEPT, and logical constraints are used to manipulate exam results.
Concepts Behind This Question
Triploid_Endosperm|Double_Fertilization|Biopiracy_and_Patents
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: The distinction between 'preventing seed formation' and 'preventing seed germination'.
Students often assume that a 'sterile' transgenic plant fails at the fertilization step.
However, in agricultural crops where the seed is the economic yield (e.g., maize, wheat), double fertilization must occur successfully.
The genetic lethality is temporally delayed to prevent the next generation's germination, thereby enforcing patent monopolies without destroying the current season's harvest.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Sexual Reproduction in Flowering Plants - Class 12 |
| Concept | Double Fertilization Stoichiometry |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |