In genetic engineering, a DNA segment (gene) of interest, is transferred to the host cell through a vector. Consider the following four agents (A-D) in this regard and select the correct option about which one or more of these can be used as a vector / vectors –
- B and D only
- A and C only
- A, B and D only
- A only
Answer
(1) B and D only
Solution
As per NCERT, plasmids and bacteriophages have the ability to replicate within bacterial cells independent of the control of chromosomal DNA, and are used as cloning vectors.
⇒ A bacterium is the host cell, not the vector, and Plasmodium is a protozoan parasite.
∴ Only B (plasmid) and D (bacteriophage) are vectors.
Answer: (1)