Question

Which of the following controls/control the growth of bollworms?

• A. CryIAc and CryIIAb genes
• B. CryIAb gene
• C. RNAi
• D. dsRNA

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

The CryIAc and CryIIAb genes produce proteins toxic to bollworms, used in genetically modified crops like Bt cotton for pest resistance.

Answer 2

The CryIAc and CryIIAb genes are part of the Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) technology, which is used to control the growth of bollworms and other pests. These genes produce Cry proteins that are toxic to certain insects, including the bollworm, when they ingest the protein. These proteins disrupt the gut cells of the pest, leading to its death.

• CryIAc and CryIIAb genes are commonly inserted into genetically modified crops like Bt cotton, providing them with resistance to bollworm attacks.
• CryIAb gene (Option 2): This gene alone may also provide protection, but in many cases, a combination of Cry proteins (such as CryIAc and CryIIAb) offers broader and more effective pest control.
• RNAi (Option 3) and dsRNA (Option 4) are technologies used in pest management but do not directly relate to the Bt genes. RNA interference (RNAi) and double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) are methods to silence specific genes in pests, potentially controlling pest populations, but Bt toxins like Cry proteins are more commonly used for bollworm control.

Thus, CryIAc and CryIIAb genes effectively control the growth of bollworms.