Question

Biolistics (gene-gun) is suitable for

• A. disarming pathogen vectors
• B. transformation of plant cells
• C. constructing recombinant DNA by joining with vectors
• D. DNA fingerprinting.

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

transformation of plant cells

Answer 2

Biolistics is a technique for introducing genetic material into living cells, especially plant cells, in which DNA-coated microscopic particles (tungesten or gold particles) are bombarded with a very high velocity into the target cell using a special gun. The microprojectiles, typically 1 mm in diameter, are accelerated to high velocity by a specially modified small calibre gun and penetrate the cell walls and plasma membrane with minimal damage. Hence, the novel DNA can be inserted into i intact plant cells ultimately transforming it without using a vector.