RNA interference is used for which of the following purposes in the field of biotechnology?

RNA interference is used for which of the following purposes in the field of biotechnology?
  1. To develop a plant tolerant to abiotic stresses
  2. To develop a pest resistant plant against infestation by nematode
  3. To enhance the mineral usage by the plant
  4. To reduce post harvest losses

Solution

RNAi or RNA interference or anti-sense RNA is a naturally occurring mechanism that leads to the “silencing” of genes. In consequence, the respective protein is no longer synthesized. Several nematodes parasitize a wide variety of plants. A nematode Meloidogyne incognita infects the roots of tobacco plants causing a great reduction in yield.  The most cost-effective and sustainable management tactic for preventing such damage is by using RNAi mechanism by developing genetically engineered or transgenic plants.

Asked in: NEET 2020 (Phase 2)

Practice more Biotechnology and Its Applications questions on Aicharya