Comprehension : Comprehension

Q 174 / 466

UPSC CSE Prelims 2020

Genome editing is different from genome modification. Genome editing typically involves finding the part of a plant genome that could be changed to render it less vulnerable to disease, or resistant to certain herbicides, or to increase yields, Researchers use 'molecular scissors' to dissect the genome and repair it, which is a process that occurs naturally when plants are under attack from diseases and can throw up new mutations that enable the plant to survive future attacks. This evolutionary process can effectively be speeded up now that it is possible to examine plant genomes in detail in laboratories, and create mechanisms through which the relevant genes can be altered very precisely.

With reference to the above passage, the following assumptions have been made:

  1. Genome editing does not require the transfer of genes from one plant to another.
  2. Through genome editing, the chosen genes can be altered precisely in a manner akin to the natural process that helps plants to adapt to the environmental factors.

Which of the above assumptions is/are valid?

EXPLANATION

Correct Option (C)

Both Statement 1 and Statement 2 are valid assumptions based on the provided passage.

  • Statement 1 is valid: The passage describes genome editing as a process of identifying and altering specific parts of a plant's existing genome ("finding the part of a plant genome that could be changed," "dissect the genome and repair it"). This method focuses on intrinsic genomic modifications rather than the introduction of genetic material from another organism, thus not requiring gene transfer between plants.
  • Statement 2 is valid: The passage explicitly states that genome editing allows for the precise alteration of genes, effectively "speeding up" the natural evolutionary process. This natural process involves plants developing mutations to adapt and survive environmental challenges, which genome editing aims to replicate and accelerate through targeted genetic changes.

Incorrect Options:

Options (A), (B), and (D) are incorrect because both assumptions are directly supported by the passage. Option (A) is invalid as it excludes the validity of Statement 2. Option (B) is invalid as it excludes the validity of Statement 1. Option (D) is invalid as it incorrectly asserts that neither assumption is valid.