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Question #46422
The Question
The classical principle of biogenesis (Omnis cellula e cellula) implies a strict vertical lineage of genetic inheritance. However, Horizontal Gene Transfer (HGT) allows organisms to acquire non-parental DNA, challenging this model. Which of the following statements regarding these genetic transfer mechanisms is INCORRECT?
Options
- A.
Agrobacterium tumefaciens facilitates a naturally evolved inter-kingdom HGT by integrating its T-DNA into the genome of dicotyledonous plants.
- B.
The transformation of R-strain Streptococcus pneumoniae by heat-killed S-strain demonstrates that genetic material can be acquired horizontally from the environment.
- C.
The pBR322 plasmid is a naturally occurring vector in Escherichia coli that facilitates the horizontal transfer of ampicillin and tetracycline resistance genes.
- D.
While biogenesis dictates the physical continuity of cells, natural plasmids and bacteriophages allow for the rapid acquisition of novel phenotypic traits independent of cellular reproduction.
Check Your Answer
Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Comparative_Analysis
Sharpen your ability to evaluate multiple scenarios and distinguish between competing potential answers.
Concepts Behind This Question
Plasmid vs Chromosomal DNA|pBR322 Selection Logic|Agrobacterium Tumefaciens
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Students often conflate the natural process of bacterial transformation with the artificial tools used in genetic engineering.
While transformation is a natural HGT mechanism, pBR322 is a strictly artificial construct (synthetic vector).
This tests the student's ability to distinguish between natural evolutionary mechanisms (like the Ti plasmid in Agrobacterium) and engineered laboratory tools (pBR322) within the context of NCERT Biotechnology.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Evolution - Class 12 |
| Concept | Abiogenesis vs. Biogenesis |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |