Cell Biology and Biotechnology
Short Questions
1. What distinguishes embryonic stem cells from adult stem cells?
Answer : Embryonic stem cells are pluripotent and derived from early embryos, while adult stem cells are multipotent and found in mature tissues.
2. Why is pleuripotency significant in stem cell research?
Answer : It allows stem cells to differentiate into any cell type, enabling diverse medical applications.
3. How does biotechnology enhance agricultural yield?
Answer : It develops high-yielding, disease-resistant crop varieties through genetic modification.
4. What is the role of Bt toxin in Bt Cotton?
Answer : It kills bollworms by destroying their alimentary canal when they feed on the plant.
5. Why are biofertilizers preferred over chemical fertilizers?
Answer : They improve soil fertility and nutrient availability without reducing long-term soil quality.
6. How does DNA fingerprinting aid forensic science?
Answer : It identifies individuals by analyzing unique DNA sequences, linking suspects to crime scenes.
7. What makes transgenic potatoes potential edible vaccines?
Answer : They produce antigens against pathogens like Vibrio cholerae, inducing immunity when consumed raw.
8. Why is somatic cell gene therapy used for disorders like PKU?
Answer : It corrects genetic defects in somatic cells, like hepatocytes, to treat the condition.
9. How does bioremediation differ from phyto-remediation?
Answer : Bioremediation uses microbes or plants, while phyto-remediation specifically uses plants to clean pollutants.
10. What was the significance of the Green Revolution?
Answer : It increased food grain production through improved crop varieties and agricultural practices.
11. Why is the White Revolution associated with dairy?
Answer : It achieved self-sufficiency in milk production through cooperative movements and biotechnology.
12. What is the goal of the Blue Revolution?
Answer : It aims to boost aquatic organism production, like fish and shrimp, through pisciculture.
13. How do chemical fertilizers harm soil compared to organic manure?
Answer : Chemical fertilizers reduce soil fertility over time, unlike organic manure, which enhances it.
14. Why is organic farming gaining popularity?
Answer : It avoids harmful chemicals, maintaining soil health and environmental balance.
15. What is the benefit of using artificial bee boxes in apiculture?
Answer : They allow honey collection without destroying hives or killing bees.
Long Questions
1. Explain the role of stem cells in regenerative therapy.
Answer : Stem cells replace dead or damaged cells in diseases like diabetes and Parkinson’s. They can differentiate into specific cell types, such as blood cells for leukemia treatment. They also enable organ regeneration for transplantation in cases of organ failure.
2. Describe the process of stem cell preservation.
Answer : Stem cells from cord blood, bone marrow, or embryos are collected in sterile vials. These are stored in liquid nitrogen at -135°C to -190°C to maintain viability. This ensures their availability for future medical treatments.
3. How does biotechnology contribute to human health management?
Answer : It enables early diagnosis of diseases like AIDS and diabetes using genetic markers. Biotechnology produces medicines like insulin and vaccines through genetically modified bacteria. It also supports gene therapy to correct genetic disorders like PKU.
4. Discuss the impact of biotechnology on crop improvement.
Answer : Biotechnology develops hybrid and genetically modified crops with higher yields and resistance to stresses. Bt Cotton and Golden Rice exemplify pest resistance and nutritional enhancement. Biofertilizers like Rhizobium improve soil fertility, supporting sustainable agriculture.
5. What is the significance of organ and body donation?
Answer : Organ donation saves lives by providing functional organs like kidneys and livers to patients. Body donation supports medical research and education. Awareness is increasing in India through government and social initiatives.
6. Explain the concept of DNA fingerprinting and its applications.
Answer : DNA fingerprinting identifies individuals by analyzing unique DNA sequences. It is used in forensic science to establish criminal identity and in paternity testing. Research is conducted at the Center for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics, Hyderabad.
7. How does bioremediation help in environmental management?
Answer : Bioremediation uses microbes like Pseudomonas to degrade pollutants like oil and hydrocarbons. Plants like sunflowers absorb toxins such as arsenic from soil. It restores contaminated environments without harmful chemical interventions.
8. Describe the role of biotechnology in the Green Revolution.
Answer : The Green Revolution increased food production through dwarf wheat and rice varieties. Biotechnology supported the use of fertilizers, pesticides, and water management. Dr. M.S. Swaminathan and Dr. Norman Borlaug were key contributors.
9. What are the advantages of organic farming over conventional farming?
Answer : Organic farming avoids chemical fertilizers and pesticides, preserving soil fertility. It uses local varieties and natural pest control, reducing environmental harm. It meets growing consumer demand for safe, sustainable food products.
10. Explain the importance of the Blue Revolution in India.
Answer : The Blue Revolution promotes pisciculture to increase fish and shrimp production. Programs like Nil-Kranti Mission-2016 offer subsidies to encourage farmers. It enhances food security and economic growth through aquatic resources.
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