The organism Agrobacterium tumefaciens can be used to genetically modify tomato plants - Edexcel - GCSE Biology - Question 4 - 2017 - Paper 1
Question 4
The organism Agrobacterium tumefaciens can be used to genetically modify tomato plants.
(a) Complete the sentence by putting a cross (✗) in the box next to your ans... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The organism Agrobacterium tumefaciens can be used to genetically modify tomato plants - Edexcel - GCSE Biology - Question 4 - 2017 - Paper 1
Step 1
Complete the sentence by putting a cross (✗) in the box next to your answer.
96%
114 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
Agrobacterium tumefaciens is a A bacterium because it is a type of microorganism that can infect plants and is often used in genetic engineering.
Step 2
Describe how this Agrobacterium tumefaciens could be used to produce a 'purple tomato' plant.
99%
104 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
Agrobacterium tumefaciens can be utilized by introducing a plasmid containing the gene for producing flavonoids into its cells. The Agrobacterium then transfers this plasmid into the tomato plant cells through a natural infection process. Once the gene is integrated into the plant's genome, the plant can produce high levels of flavonoids, resulting in a 'purple tomato'.
Step 3
Explain one advantage of the genetic modification of the 'purple tomato' plant.
96%
101 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
One advantage of genetic modification of the 'purple tomato' plant is that it can enhance nutritional value. The increased flavonoids can act as antioxidants, providing potential health benefits to consumers.
Step 4
Explain how growing herbicide-resistant corn can increase the food supply.
98%
120 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
Growing herbicide-resistant corn allows farmers to effectively control weeds without damaging the crop. This leads to higher yields since crops can grow without competition for nutrients and sunlight, ultimately increasing the food supply.
Step 5
Describe how the ladybird could be used to increase crop yield.
97%
117 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
The ladybird can be used to increase crop yield by acting as a natural predator of the European corn borer, which is a pest that damages corn plants. By controlling the corn borer population, ladybirds help protect the crops, leading to healthier plants and improved yields.