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Question #45505
The Question
A researcher successfully employs RNA interference (RNAi) to silence the genes responsible for the synthesis of secretory proteins in the filiform apparatus of an angiosperm. Which of the following statements correctly describes the direct consequence of this intervention on the plant's reproductive biology, and its conceptual analogy in biotechnology?
Options
- A.
A pre-zygotic barrier is established as the pollen tube fails to enter the synergid; this failure of targeted delivery is conceptually analogous to a non-competent host cell failing to take up recombinant DNA.
- B.
The plant exhibits functional male sterility because the pollen grains fail to germinate on the stigma; analogous to the rejection of non-transformants by a selectable marker.
- C.
The embryo sac becomes unreceptive, leading to post-zygotic embryo abortion due to lack of nutrition; analogous to insertional inactivation of the β-galactosidase gene.
- D.
The pollen tube bypasses the synergids and enters the central cell directly, causing failure of syngamy but successful triple fusion; analogous to off-target ligation in a pBR322 vector.
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Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Regulatory_Failure
Understand how NOT, EXCEPT, and logical constraints are used to manipulate exam results.
Concepts Behind This Question
Synergid Filiform Apparatus|pBR322 Selection Logic|Competent Cell Preparation
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Students often confuse the site of initial pollen recognition (stigma/style compatibility) with the site of terminal pollen tube guidance (synergid/filiform apparatus).
The trap in Option B plays on the misconception that a failure of fertilization equates to 'male sterility', whereas the defect here is strictly in the female gametophyte's guidance system.
Linking this pre-zygotic physical barrier to the biotechnological concept of 'host competence' tests the deep analogical synthesis required for elite NEET application questions.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Sexual Reproduction in Flowering Plants - Class 12 |
| Concept | Synergid Filiform Apparatus |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |