Question

Biolistics method is suitable for gene transfer into ______.

• A. Viruses
• B. Animal cells
• C. Bacteria
• D. Plant cells

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

DNA-coated metal particles (gold/tungsten) are accelerated into target cells using high pressure. Particles penetrate cell walls and membranes, delivering foreign DNA

Primary Application:

• Particularly effective for plant cells due to their rigid cell walls
• Widely used in crop genetic engineering (e.g., Bt cotton, Golden Rice)

Thus, the correct option is D: Plant cells. This method revolutionized plant genetic engineering by enabling direct gene transfer into intact plant tissues.

Answer 2

Biolistics (gene gun): Fires gold/tungsten particles coated with DNA into plant cells (e.g., crops).

Biolistics (also known as the gene gun method) is a technique used to introduce foreign genetic material (DNA) into cells, particularly plant and animal cells, by physically shooting microscopic particles coated with DNA into the target cells. This method is particularly useful in genetic engineering, where researchers want to insert new genes into organisms.

Not suitable for:

• (A) Viruses: Too small.
• (B) Animal cells: Prefer electroporation/lipofection.
• (C) Bacteria: Use heat shock/electroporation.

Correct Answer: (D) Plant cells