Question

Assertion (A) : Isolated single cells can be fused to produce somatic hybrids.
Reason (R) : Cells selected for somatic hybridisation have desirable characters.

• A. Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true and Reason (R) is the correct explanation of the Assertion (A).
• B. Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true, but Reason (R) is not the correct explanation of the Assertion (A).
• C. Assertion (A) is true, but Reason (R) is false.
• D. Assertion (A) is false, but Reason (R) is true.

Hint:

Understand the process of somatic hybridization. The fusion of protoplasts is the key step, and the selection of cells with desirable traits is the goal or application of this technique.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Assertion (A) states that isolated single cells can be fused to produce somatic hybrids. This is true. Somatic hybridization is a process where protoplasts (cells without cell walls) from two different plant or animal species or varieties are fused together in vitro to obtain a hybrid somatic cell, which can then be cultured to regenerate a somatic hybrid plant or animal.
Reason (R) states that cells selected for somatic hybridization have desirable characters. This is also true. The main aim of somatic hybridization is often to combine desirable traits from two different cell lines or species that cannot be achieved through sexual reproduction. Therefore, cells with specific desirable characteristics are chosen for the fusion process. However, Reason (R) does not explain why isolated single cells can be fused to produce somatic hybrids. The fact that cells with desirable characters are selected is the motivation or application of somatic hybridization, not the reason why the fusion of isolated single cells is possible. The ability to fuse isolated single cells (specifically their protoplasts) is due to the removal of cell walls and the use of fusogens like PEG or electrofusion techniques. Therefore, both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true, but Reason (R) is not the correct explanation of Assertion (A).