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Question #45554
The Question
A multinational corporation introduces a transgenic food crop into India without the authorization of the apex national regulatory body. Epidemiological studies later reveal that a novel metabolite produced by the transgene acts as a teratogen, causing severe developmental dysmorphogenesis in the fetuses of pregnant women who consumed the crop. Regarding the regulatory and medical implications of this crisis, which of the following statements is correct?
Options
- A.
The corporation bypassed the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC), and the affected women are legally permitted to undergo Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) due to the substantial risk of fetal abnormalities.
- B.
The unauthorized introduction constitutes biopiracy, and the teratogenic effects indicate that the transgene has directly increased the mutation rate in the maternal germline cells.
- C.
GEAC is the primary authority responsible for granting biopatents, and the MTP Act strictly prohibits pregnancy termination beyond 20 weeks even in cases of severe teratogenic dysmorphogenesis.
- D.
The teratogenic metabolite alters the genetic integrity of the fetus by inducing polyploidy, which can be legally diagnosed via amniocentesis to justify an MTP.
Check Your Answer
Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Comparative_Analysis
Sharpen your ability to evaluate multiple scenarios and distinguish between competing potential answers.
Concepts Behind This Question
MTP Legal Parameters|GEAC Oversight|Biopiracy and Patents
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: This question tests the synthesis of Biotechnology regulation (GEAC's exact mandate vs.
Patent offices) and Reproductive Health laws (MTP Act clauses for fetal abnormalities).
The primary trap lies in confusing the mechanism of teratogens (somatic developmental toxicity) with mutagens (germline mutations or polyploidy), and misattributing the functions of GEAC.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Reproductive Health - Class 12 |
| Concept | MTP Legal Parameters |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |