Ques: How is Bio Tech helping farmers to uplift their living standards (15 Marks)
The Structure of the Question Could Be:
For Intro - Definition, News, Context-Based Intro, Data-Based Intro
Try to Remember the Definitions of Technologies
Body
Cover it in a Holistic Manner - Put Points in Body in a Connected Manner in a Wholistic Manner
Challenges in Short - Non Core Dimension
Conclusion or Way Forward
Introduction to Bio-Technology
Science is the Law of Nature and the Working of being whereas Technology is the Application of Science
This Term was given by Karl Erkey in 1991 “Implying Application of Biological Science and its Interaction with Human Made Technologies”
The exploitation of Biological Processes for the well-being of Lives.
Definition of by European Federation of Bio-Technology - “The Integration of Natural Science and Organisms, Cells, Parts Their Off and Molecular Analogues for Products and Services”
Branches of Bio-Technology
Red Bio-Tech
Also Known as Medical Bio-Tech. It is an application of Bio-Tech to Manufacture, Enzymes, Anti Biotics and is also used for Molecular Diagnostics
Green Bio-Tech
It is also knowns as Agricultural Biotechnology. It is an application of Biotechnology to Agricultural Processes and Products
Blue Bio-Tech
It is also known as Marine Bio-Technology. It is marine and aquatic application of biotechnology
White Bio-Tech
It is also known as Industrial Bio-Technology. It is applied to other Industrial and Production Processes
Historical Background of Bio-Technology
Yeast in Bread
More Knowledge after HGP R
Auto Industry - Acetone - Needed Fermentation Process
Paul Berg - Harvard Scientist → Came up with Recombinant DNA Technology (rDNA)
It is combining of Genes from Different Sources because as evident from cell theory we all have evolved from bacteria and hence we have same ancestors
Principle of Bio-Technology
All Living Beings have evolved from a common ancestor, so all living beings use DNA & RNA as the material for inheritance so biologically and chemically DNA & RNA are the same for all species. It implies that genes from one species can be combined with genes of another species
Example: In BT Cotton i.e Bacillus thuringiensis and we have inserted it into cotton plant tissue.
Red Bio Tech
Introduction to Red Bio Tech
Re Combinant DNA Technology → Direct & Indirect Methods of Gene Transfer
Introduction
It was produced by Paul Berg. He is known as the Father of Genetic Engineering
Recombinant means DNA from 2 or more sources are combined. DNA from different organisms can be cut and pasted together, resulting in recombinant DNA
Note:
Words Like: Transgenic, Genetic Engineering, Genetically Modified Organisms, Gene-Edited etc all depict the same principle and process
Tools of Bio-Technology or Genetic Engineering
Scissor → Restriction Enzyme / Molecular Scissors
Bacteriophage → Bacteria Eating Virus
Restriction Enzymes are molecular scissors that can identify specific DNA and cut that DNA at those sites. RE are natural defence mechanism of Bacteria when they are attacked by Bacteriophages
The Virus pushes down the DNA or RNA in the body of Bacteria, RE cuts the incoming DNA or RNA at multiple points. So the virus is not able to multiply inside the bacteria.
Fevicol → DNA Ligase
It is responsible for joining the gaps that form during DNA Replication, DNA Repair and Re Combination.
Photocopy → DNA Polymerase
These are enzymes that help in the replication of DNA they are active during cell repair and maintenance
Usage of these Tools → Recombinant DNA Technology → Indirect Method / Vectored Method
Enzymes Included Are
Scissor - Restriction Enzyme - To Cut Human Insulin Gene and Bacteria to Reach Plasmid
Fevicol - DNA Ligase - To Make Re-Combinant Plasmid
Photocopy - DNA Polymerase - Grow in Culture
Steps Included Are
Isolation of the Desired Genes using Restriction Enzyme
Preparation of Vector Again using RE - i.e cutting the bacteria to reach Plasmid
Ligation - Pasting Insulin Gene from Human to the Plasmid
Introduction of Recombinant DNA in the Host
The Desired Gene expresses itself
Making Multiple copies of the New Host → Polymerase
Note: A Vector can be a Bacteria, Virus, Fungi
Usage of these Tools → Recombinant DNA Technology → Direct Method / Vector Less Method
Method 1: Electroporation
It involves the use of high-voltage shocks to introduce desired DNA into cells
Cell Membrane does not allow electricity to pass, so when they are subjected to high voltage, the membrane breaks or develops pore and the desired genes enter into the cell
When the electric current is removed, the cell automatically heals.
Method 2: Chemically Mediated Transfer
Chemical Compounds are used to facilitate DNA Transfer directly to the cells. These chemical compounds break the cell membrane at certain points and the desired gene enters the cell
When it is removed from the chemical, the cell heals. and now the desired gene is inside the host.
Example of Chemical : Calcium Phosphate
Method 3: Micro Injection
A Very Fined Glass Pipette is used and through an Injection, the desired DNA is inserted into the Nucleus, this is done under a Powerful Microscope
Micro Injections are famous in Animal Husbandry for Fertilisation
Method 4: Gene Gun
Gene Gun is a device to inject cells with Genetic Information. The Payload is a Heavy Metal coated with the desired gene
Under certain conditions, the cells readily stick to some inert elements. so this particle laced with the gene enters the cell
Concept of RNA Interference
RNA Interference refers to Gene Silencing at the mRNA level by using small Interfering RNAs. These siRNAs target the mRNA molecules and Neutralises it
Many Organisms use RNAi to control genes, it can also be used in labs and in future therapies
Application Area of RNA Interference
Medicines
To Target Specific Genes that cause cancer.
To Treat Bacterial Diseases, Viral and Parasitic
To Relieve Pain and to induce sleep
Cell Culture
It is used to silence the expression of certain geness
PYQP Prelims
Answer is C
Answer is D
Genetic Changes can be done at any time except for when you are dead.
CRISPR CAS 9 is a Gene Editing Tool, it is an efficient and customisable alternative to other gene editing tools. It has two key enzymes.
CAS 9 - A Molecular Scissor
gRNA - Guide RNA guides the CAS 9 to cut at the right places and it also helps in binding to specific locations only in the genome and to no other point.
Applications of Bio-Technology (Health Sector)
Health Sector should be thought in these three parameters
Diagnosis
ELISA
ELISA - Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay
Anti Gens
External Antigens are agents which cause disease in humans. There are two types of Antigens
External Anti Gens
Internal Anti Gens
Example:
Microbes (Pathogen) - Bacteria, Fungi, Viruses
Dust
Note: RT PCR checks for Anti Gen Load in Human Body
Anti Bodies
Antibodies are Protein produced by our body in response to external anti gens
ELISA detects and Measures Anti Bodies in Blood.
ELISA is used to test and diagnose HIV, Rota Virus (Causes Diarrhoea, RNA Based), Zika and other diseases
PCR
Introduction and Process
PCR is Polymerase Chain Reaction
PCR can multiply only DNA in Lab and not RNA
We use alternate cycles of Heating and Annealing to make multiple copies
PCR Test was developed by American Scientist Kary Mullis
Applications of PCR
In the Diagnosis of Diseases, Especially Genetic Diseases
To Multiply Copies of DNA found in the Scene in Forensics
In Analysing Ancient Samples of DNA
RT PCR Test → PCR of Single-Stranded RNA?
DNA to RNA → Transcription Process during Protein Synthesis
RNA to DNA → Reverse Transcription
Covid Virus is a Single-Stranded RNA Virus
RT PCR is Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction
Reverse Transcription is done to convert a Single-Stranded RNA into DNA
This cDNA undergoes PCR.
RT PCR is used to measure the Specific Amount of a Particular RNA
It is a Highly Sensitive Technique in which a very low number of RNA can also be detected which is why it is known as the Gold Standard for all covid tests
RT PCR was used to detect COVID, Lesch Nyhna Syndrome, Some Genetic Disorders and Cancer
Treatment
Somatic Cell Gene Therapy - Stem Cell Therapy
Introduction
Stem Cells are bodies Master Cells. All other cells arise from stem cells including Blood Cells, Nerve Cells etc
Stem Cells can become New Stem Cells also. This is known as Self Renewal and if it becomes another type, then that is called as Differentiation
Types of Stem Cells
Embryonic Stem Cells
They are Extracted from an Embryo, 3 to 5 Days old. They are also called as Pluripotent Stem Cells as they have the capacity to become any other type of cells in the body
Non-Embryonic Stem Cells / Adult Stem Cells
They are found in developed organs and tissues in the body. They help during the repair and damage of tissues and organs.
Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells
under certain circumstances, adult stem cells can transform into Pluripotent Stem Cells. Scientist are trying to develop this method
Other places where Stem Cells are found
Amniotic Fluid
The fluid that surrounds a developing baby inside Mothers womb
Umbilical Cord
Stem Cells are Harvested from the Umbilical Cord after Child Birth. They can be frozen in cell banks for use in future. These cells have been successfully used to treat children with blood cancer
Significance of Stem Cells
Organs can be grown in Lab using Stem Cells to replace damaged organs
Stem cells can help in the repair of organs not working properly
We can test new drugs by creating organs in the lab
It can also give insight into why genetic defects arise
It can help us to understand cancer
Stem Cell Therapy in News
A Woman in the USA was cured of HIV by using Stem Cell Therapy. She received stem cells from a Donors Umbilical Cord, the Donor is resistant to HIV.
The donor was not related to the patient and there was no immune response in the women. So it opens the door or gateway for wide applications of the technology.
CCR 5 Gene Mutated to CCR5 Delta 32 which is immune to HIV
Steps Involved in Stem Cell Therapy
Test & Examination of Both Patient & Donor
Harvesting of Stem Cells from Blood, Organ, Embryo, Bone Marrow etc
Conditioning of Stem Cells and Patient before Transplant → like Immuno Suppressant
Actual Transfer of Stem Cells
Recovery & Monitoring
Advantages of Stem Cell Therapy
It is not Invasive ( Invasive means requiring Surgery) → Very Less Need of Surgery
No use of Anaesthesia
Painless Methods
Less Chances of Immune Response if own Embryonic Stem Cells are used
Long Term Cure → We can even cure some of the Genetic Diseases completely & Permanently
Challenges or concerns related to Stem Cells
Technical Challenges
During the Harvesting of Embryonic Stem Cells, the Embryo is destroyed or discarded
The Pluripotent Stem Cells in Lab could grow Irregularly into different types spontaneously
It might Trigger immune response
Challenges in India
It is costly
Not many hospitals have this therapy and there are not professionals or experts in stem cell therapy
Genetic & Rich Poor Divide
Not Many People are Aware about it, especially in India
Lack of Skilled HR
Ethical Concerns
Designer Baby
Conclusion
Clinical Trials should be Increased
More R&D Needed
Concept of Types of Twins - Mono Zygotic & Di Zygotic
Mains Question on
Ques: Stem Cell Therapy is gaining popularity in India to treat a wide variety of medical conditions. Describe Briefly what Stem Cell Therapy and what advantages it has over other treatments
Note: Always Focus on the Structure of the Answers
Note: Cut Down Words and Not Dimensions
Germ Cell Gene Therapy - Nuclear Transfers
IVF / Test Tube Baby
Difference Between Commercial Surrogacy and Altruistic Surrogacy Fine Prints of Surrogacy Rule
Surrogate Mother should already have a child
Surrogate Mothers should be between 25 and 35 years of age
Expecting Parents should be medically confirmed Sterile by 2 Doctors
Expecting Parents should not have a child earlier by themselves
Ill Effects of Commercial Surrogacy
Maternal Spindle Transfer - Before Fertilisation
This Transfer Makes → 3 Parent Baby or Mitochondrial Replacement Therapy
Note: Removal of an Unhealthy Nucleus is called Enucleation.
This Method of Producing a Three Parent Baby is called a Maternal Spindle Transfer
This is done before fertilisation but there are methods of doing it after Fertilisation
In Maternal Spindle Transfer, The Genetic Changes are done before fertilisation. The Nucleus from initiating the mother's egg shell is removed and at the same time donors mothers egg cell is taken and the nucleus is removed.
This donor cell contains healthy mitochondria and they are now fused to get a new egg cell having nuclear DNA from initiating mother and healthy mitochondria from Donor Mother.
After this Fertilisation is done and the Embryo formed is implanted in Initiating mother's womb or uterus
After giving an electric shock, the new pro nucleus starts to divide
Pro Nuclear Transfer Method - After Fertilisation
in this method, the genetic changes are done after fertilisation, the pronucleus is removed, and at the same time, a donors mothers egg cell is taken and the nucleus is removed, the pronucleus is then fused to this donor egg cell and we get a new pronucleus
After giving an electric shock, the new pro nucleus starts to divide
Concept of Amniotic Fluid
Amniotic Fluid is the Fluid in which Baby is Suspended
PYQP Prelims
Answer is D
Answer is C
Both Somatic and Germ Cell Gene Therapy
Somatic Nuclear Transfer - Cloning
Animal Cloning
Cloning is also known as Somatic Nuclear Transfer. In Cloning Somatic Cells are taken and the nucleus is removed, at the same time, the nucleus from an egg cell is also removed. The Nucleus of the somatic cell is transferred to the Enucleated Egg Cell. This egg cell is given an electric shock and it starts to divide i.e it behaved like a freshly fertilised cell. The early-stage embryo is transplanted into Surrogate Mother.
Example:
Dolly the Sheep
Garima, the Buffalo (Second Cloned Buffalo First One had died
Human Cloning
Concerns Related to Human Cloning
Most Religions are against this. They do not want that humans should play as a god
High Failure Rate in Cloning
Cloned People might have very similar personality
It could lead to neo-racism and designer babies
It will decrease genetic diversity
It will decrease the adoption rate
Gene Editing or CRISPR in News
Alyssia from the UK is suffering from a Blood Disorder. The T Cells, that is a kind of WBC which are meant to neutralise external threats are acting against the healthy body cells.
The Unhealthy T Cells were extracted using CRISPR CAS 9. Base Editing was done and T Cells now became healthy.
These Healthy T Cells have been transplanted back into Alyssia and it was found that these healthy T Cells are killing unhealthy T Cells.
A Chinese Scientist, He Jiankui, Produced the world's first gene-edited babu known as Lulu&Nana. He removed the CCR 5 Gene in the Embryo and now Lulu and Nana are resistant to HIV. This happened in 2018. He is in Jail Now because he didn't follow proper norms according to china government.
Victoria Grey in America is Suffering from Sickle Cells Anaemia where Blood cells become Half Moon Shaped instead of Round, these sickle cells block the blood vessels and they cause severe pain inside the body. Using CRISPR CAS 9 cells were removed from Bone Marrow and Modified to produce Foetal Haemoglobin.
Foetal Haemoglobin is made by Foetuses in the Womb. To get oxygen from the mother's blood but this mechanism stops after childbirth. She is on a Clinical Trial
Blood in Human Body is produced from Bone Morrow where we have Blood Stem cells and they are the source for making blood in the body.
Cancer Therapies in News
Concept of Composition of Blood
CAR-T Therapy
T Cells are one of the WBC and are known as Killer Cells as they kill Pathogens. B cell induce formation of Antibodies
Cancer Cells are uncontrolled Cell Division.
Scientist have extracted the T Cells from the Patient and then Edited it in Lab to kill Specific Type of Cancer Cells.
PD-1 Blockade
PD 1 is a Type of Protein in T Cells which Identifies Cancer Cells in the Body but the Cancer Cells sometimes Block the PD 1 protein itself thus making T cells unable to identify cancer cells
PD 1 are specific proteins present on T Cells, which helps it to identify cancer cells, these cancer cells somehow block the PD 1 protein, so in this therapy we are removing this blockage so that T cells can now again kill the Cancer Cells.
Above 2 Therapies are also known as Immune Therapy to Treat Cancer
m-RNA based vaccines are being developed for fighting cancer
Prevention
Concept of Antigen & Antibody
Antigen
Antigens are Molecules which Triggers the Immune Response, it could be present on Pathogens or a simple dust particle can also act as Antigen. Antigens are even present inside our body on some cells
There are two types of Antigen
Internal Antigen
A Antigen on RBC in a A Blood Group
External Antigen
Spike Proteins on the Surface of Covid Virus
Antigens are like Biological Markers through which our Immune System Identifies Threat and Responds to it
Antigen & Pathogen
The difference between antigen and pathogen is easy to understand:
An antigen is a substance that triggers the production of antibodies. Pathogens are harmful microorganisms that can cause diseases.
Antibody
Protein Produced by Body in Response to Antigen. It is of the shape, that it counters and nullifies the effects and shape of Antigen
Difference Between Antigen and Antibody
What is a Vaccine ?
Vaccine mimics the Antigens and activates the immune system w/o causing disease.
The first vaccine was developed when Dr Edward Jenner found that people who had previously got infected with Cowpox were immune to Smallpox
Different Types of Vaccines
Principle on which Vaccine Works
Our Immune System works on the principle of “Immunological Memory” i.e if it has produced anti body once, then the next time when antigen enters the body, it quickly starts to make the antibody. thus reducing immune response time.
In All Different Types of Vaccines we are just trying to mimic the Antigen
Live(but Attenuated)
Here the Pathogen is live but its Potency is greatly reduced.
These were the Earliest type of Vaccines that we developed.
Example : Polio, Small Pox, Chicken Pox, Measles, Rubella
They give a lasting immune response but they can also lead to Vaccine induced disease as is observed in case of Polio and also the vaccine has to be kept at very low temp
It is most efficient but the issue is that some bacteria can move out through faecal route, and then contaminate water and then multiply. Hence the threat is that of Vaccine Induced Diseases
Inactivated
we use the killed pathogens to trigger the immune response.
Example : Polio, Rabies, Hep A, Flu
Covaxin(India), Sinofarm(Chinese) is an example of Inactivated Vaccine
Toxoid (Toxin Based)
Some of the bacteria and virus themselves are not harmful but they produce toxins that are harmful. so in this we target the toxins produced by pathogens.
Example : Tetanus and Diphtheria (mucous coagulated in nose)
Subunit (Recombinant)
These vaccines are made using some parts of pathogen
Example : The Spike Protein of Covid acts as an Antigen.
Example : Corbevax uses this concept, Hepatitis B & HPV
Conjugate Vaccines
They are a type of Subunit Vaccines where it targets not only the protein but also the complex sugars like Polysaccharides.
Some bacterias cell capsule is made up of Polysaccharides.
PCV is Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine
m-RNA based vaccine
mRNA molecules helps the body to make proteins. In case of Covid, we have constructed mRNA in Lab which when enters our body instructs the cells to make proteins but these proteins are exactly same as spike proteins found on Covid
The Bodies Immune System Soon Recognises, that these protein synthesis was not ordered by the cell so it starts to kill the spike proteins with help of anti bodies
Example : Moderna & Pfizer & Keytruda by Moderna & Merck
Vector Vaccines (Recombinant)
These Vaccines use a Vector essentially modified virus or bacteria as an Antigen
Example :
Sputnik
Covisheild → vector is a modified adenovirus taken from chimpanzee
Incovacc → nasal spray vaccine
Johnson & Johnson → J&J
PYQP Mains
What is mRNA based vaccine Technology and why is it considered to be revolution in vaccine making ? what are the challenges wrt this technology in India
Green Bio Tech
GM Crops - Genetically Modified Crops
BT Cotton
Concept of Pest Cycle
Eggs → Larvae → Pupa → Adult
Concept of BT Cotton
BT cotton is the first legally grown GM Crop in India. It was introduced in 2002.
Cotton Plants are effected by Pest Attacks, there are many types of pest which attack the cotton plant. we categorise them as Pest Complex
For Example
Ballworm Complex
80% of pest attack on cotton in India is attacked by American Ballworm
Jassids Complex
Aphids Complex
Thrips Complex
Previously Farmers used BT Sprays to kill the Bollworms
BT is Bacillus Thuringiensis. It is a common soil borne bacteria. This bacteria produces a particular kind of protein known as Crystal Protein, when pest eat this protein, the crystal protein get activated inside the guy of the pest because of High Alkalinity or High PH These Crystal Protein rupture the intestine of pest and they get killed.
However, External Sprays had Limitations like
Timing of Spray such that Larva eats the Toxin
Sprays got evaporated in Sunlight
Could not reach to all parts of Plant
Could not effect the adult pests much
So the Gene that makes this protein was transferred to the Plant tissue
Advantages of Introducing it in plant tissue
Timing Issue Resolved
Did not get lost due to Sunlight
Always present in the plant tissue. so no issue of reach
At the Larva Stage they will get killed so they will not become adults
These Seeds were developed by Monsanto + Pine + Delta
It was invented in 1987, allowed in USA in 1996 and allowed in India in 2002
They developed Terminator Seeds → i.e it cannot be used again
Advantages of BT Cotton
Farmers
More Economical and Less Loss to the Farmers
Reduces Use of Pesticide
Less input cost & better output. Increases Farmers Incomes
More Export
Relives Farmers from Bio Accumulation & Prevents Health Hazards
Environment
Its Pest Resistant
Less Soil Pollution
Less Chance of Bio Magnification
Challenges / Concerns of BT Cotton
Technical / Biological Challenges
Pests are Evolving
Uses Sophisticated Technology
Indigenous Crops are not being sown, thus leading to Narrowing of Genetic Diversity
Lost the Natural Enemies of Bollworm Complex
Pesticide Accumulation in Food
Agents of Pollination Affected
Increase of Secondary Pests
Rise of Secondary Complex → Jassid, Haphids & Thrips
Increasing Resistance of Bollworms
Loss of Natural Enemies of Bollworm
Reduction of Genetic Diversity
Loss of Indigenous Diversity
Regular need to evolve BT Seeds
Indian Factors
Heavily Monopolised Supply
High Cost of Seeds
Monopolisation of Seeds because of Terminator or Suicide Seeds
They have Genes which causes the second generation to be infertile
Monocropping
High Cost of Seeds
Pressure on Marginal and almost all types of Farmers
Evolution of BT Seeds
First Generation - Bollgard 1 & Widestrike 1
Second Generation - Bollgard 2 & Widestrike 2
Third Generation - Bollgard 3 & Widestrike 3
Note: Currently India is using Bollgard 1 & 2
PYQP Prelims
Concept of Ht Bt Cotton
Ht - Herbicide Tolerant
Cotton Crop Cycle - 170 & 180 Days
HtBt Cotton is not allowed or Legal in India
It is used to reduce the recurring labour cost of spraying herbicide every time
Herbicide : a substance that is toxic to plants, used to destroy unwanted vegetation.
Herbicide Tolerant Cotton adds another layer of modification by making the plant resistant to herbicide such as dry phosphate. These herbicides are carcinogenic or cancer causing. it is illegal to grow HtBt cotton in India but farmers in Mah, Guj, Haryana were found to be growing HtBt Cotton
In Cotton Cropping Farmers uses Herbicide Multiples times to kill the weeds. If the cotton could be made Herbicide tolerant then there is fear that large amount of would be used in the first go.
this will lead to carcinogenic, water canal bio accumulation & bio magnification, increased and unwanted use of Herbicides and thus increased cost of farming
GM Mustard
Concept
GM Mustard is a Self Pollinating Plant
Anthers Pollen Grains - Male Part
Ovary - Female Part
They Do Self Pollination
This led to Hybridity Vigour and thus reduced Output
GM Mustard has been invented to increase the yield and to increase herbicide tolerance.
Three Genes from a Bacteria Bacillus Liquifaciens has been taken. Two Genes will prevent Self Pollination and One Gene will provide Herbicide Tolerance
Mustard is a Self Pollinating Plant and its Yield has Stagnated over the decade
Self Pollinated → Meaning its Flowers Contain both the Male and Female Part
The Two Genes makes the Male Part Sterile so the flower now accepts pollens from other male lines i.e it has become and following now cross pollination
DMH 11 was developed by Prof Deepak Pental et al. He was VC of DU
GEAC has given approval to make seeds prior to commercial release of GM Mustard
Advantages of DMH 11
Technical / Biological Challenges
More Nutritious
Prevents Inbreeding
Will lead to increase in Yield and Productivity
Increase in Nutritional Value & Genetic Diversity
Indian Challenges
Reduces Import Bill and Thus Import Dependency. We Import 55-60% of Food Oil which costed us Rs 1,17,000 Cr
No Monopolisation of Seeds
Will Greatly Reduce the Import Bill
Reduced Cost to Consumer
Why is there opposition to GM Mustard Crop ?
Coalition for GM Free India is opposing Commercial Release of GM Mustard and claims that GEAC’s (Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee) decision lacks scientific vigour
Inadequate Research and tests on impact on bees and other pollinators. Impact of Herbicide Tolerant has not been accounted for.
It can lead to genetic contamination which can increase toxicity of food, thus impacting human health
GEAC gave approval while the matter is still pending in supreme court
PYQP Prelims
Answer is B
Flavr Savr Tomato
It was the first GM Crop which got approval for commercial production in USA. Started in USA in 1990’s
It was modified to ripen without softening. The Fruit cell wall made of Pectin was modified so that is degraded slowly
In the new Tomato, The Tomato Waste had Higher Viscosity
BT Brinjal
It was developed by Mahyco Maharashtra Seed Company along with Dharwad University, TN Agri Uni
Brinjal also suffers from Pest Attack, so crystal proteins named as Cry 1AC Gene has been extracted from BT and inserted in Brinjal Tissues
GEAC in 2007 had given approval for commercial release of BT Brinjal. However because of Opposition Govt did not gave the final approval.
However Bangladesh adopted BT Brinjal and it has been quite successful.
GM Rice
Difference Between Bio Fortification & Fortification
Bio Fortification - Plants Starts t produce vitamins and minerals internally
Fortification - Addition of Vitamins and Minerals externally in Food
Golden Rice
It was developed by International Rice Research Institute in Philippines
Golden because it becomes Golden Color when Bio Fortification of Vitamin A
It is a type of rice that contains Beta Carotene is a Pro Vitamin A which is converted into Vitamin A on consumption. Beta Carotene is found in Leafy Vegetables and Orange and Yellow Color Foods
Rice plant synthesises Beta Carotene in all parts of the plants except the seeds so genes are added and it switches on the Pathway and consequently Beat Carotene accumulates in the Grain.
Advantages of Golden Rice
Nutritional Rice - Eating 100 to 150 gms of Golden Rice contributes to 60% of Daily Vitamin A Requirement.
A Single Serving of 100 to 150 Gm of Rice can fulfils the 60% of daily requirement of Vit A
It has Low Sodium so it is good for High BP Patients.
Because of Vit A, it also reduces Gastro Intestinal Stress & thus is good for Gut Health
It can help in Fighting Color Blindness and Eye Related Diseases, especially in poor countries
Issues with Golden Rice
In the Initial trials o Golden Rice, It did not contain sufficient pro vitamin a
there is concern that these pro vitamins, gets lost during cooking
it can lead to excess intake of vitamins
There is a perception that we are trying to human health by using GM Modified Crops which could alter our health in other ways in long run
Why in News
A Consignment of Rice from India to Europe was claimed by European Authorities that it was GM Rice
Lunishree Rice
Cuttack Based “Central Rice Research Institute” (CRRI) has developed rice variety which can grow even in alkaline soil found in coastal plains
Its yield is 28 to 30 percent more than other crops
It has also Long Grains
Further research is going on to reduce the crop cycle which at present is of 120 Days
GM Potato
We are trying to increase the Protein Content of Potato and Hence Famously known as Protato
It contains 60% more protein compared to conventional potato
we have added a gene known as AmA! from Amaranth Plant
It is a tall broad leaf plant that produces seeds which is rich in protein
this gene activates the production of protein in Potato
It has been developed at
CPRI - Central Potato Research Institute, Shimla
NIGR - National Institute for Plant Genomic Research, New Delhi
Homework
GM Soyabean GM Rubber
Debate on Any GM Crop
Running Notes
Argument For
Can lead to increased Farmers Yield and Income as in case of Bangladesh
Reduced Load on Import Bills and Reduced Cost of Importing for Food Oil
Can Advance Agri and Turn Agri into Profitable Business
Because of GR, Nutritional Quality of food has reduced. GM Crops will lead to Food Security & Nutrition Security (will help in fighting Hidden Hunger)
Can help in fighting Pollution
We can reduce Water Dependency
Argument Against
Not Enough Tested & Clinical Trials
Commercialisation and Monopolisation of Seeds
Bio Accumulation & Bio Magnification
Can lead to Anti Bacterial Resistance
Cutting in Jobs of Manual Labourers
Loss of Indigenous Diversity & Traditional Farming
Can Lead to Cancer & Genetic Changes in Humans
Dictation
Arguments For
Food Security - Norman Borough who is father fo Green Revolution says that it is better to eat GM Food Crop than to die of Hunger
Can Address Nutritional Security i.e can address Hidden Hunger by WHO
Can increase income, improve health and make agri remunerative or profitable for Farmers
Can reduce soil & water pollution.
Can Reduce Bio Amplification & Magnification
Can help in fighting Climate Change
Arguments Against
Genetic Contamination & Environmental Hazards
No Long Drawn Studies or Third Party Studies to know the impact of GM Crops on Health & Environment
Farmers Exploitation because of Dominance by Multinational Seed Companies
Can change the course of Evolution
Can Lead to Change in Chemistry & Biology of Soil
Way Forward
Pilot Basis, Phase Wise Manner, More Trials, Can Learn from Universal Exams, National Insurance Pool for Unintentional Unforeseen Damages
Govt Recommendation by Parliamentary Committee on GM Crops
Capacity Building on GM Research
Simplified Module for Risk Assessment & Management
Science Based & Consistent Regulatory Policy
Increasing Awareness Amongst Public with Evidence based Information on GM Crops & Products
Significance of GM Crops & Allied Modification
Increase Pest - BT Cotton & BT Brinjal
High Yield - DMH 11, Lunishree
Bio Fortification - Golden Rice & Protato
Increase Shelf Life - Flavr Savr Tomato
Nutritional Security - Concept of RDA
RDA is Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA)-reg. Section 22 of the FSS Act, 2006 allows the use of vitamins or minerals in. amounts not exceeding the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for Indians in. functional foods, foods for special dietary uses, nutraceuticals and health.
Question
How Bio Tech can help to Improve Living Standard of Farmers?
GEAC - Genetic Engineering Agricultural Crop
General Criticism
It is not conducting field trials and depending on third party data
It is not a independent body and is under environment ministry
Structural Problems Such as Bureaucrats are Heading GEAC rather than Bio Technology.
No Civil Society Representation
“Standing Committee Report on S&T” gave a report called “GM Crop and Its Impact on Environment”
Regulatory Framework
Regulators Depend on Data but the Data is Provided by Technology Developers so there are chances of Tampering of Data
Regulators do not supervise field trials
Members of Regulators i.e GEAC are from central government. There is no representation of civil society or even of states
There is Adhocism in Appointment
No Fixed Criteria on Appointment
Top 2 to 3 posts are occupied by generalists and not specialist
GM Crops
17 of the 20 Most developed countries including Europe, Japan, Russia Israel do not grow GM Crops
GM Mustard
GEAC gave approval even when the matter is in SC
There is evidence of adverse impact since it is herbicide tolerant, even states are not ready to allow its entry even for field trial
Suggestions by Committee Are
Field Trials should be done in Close Consultation with Agri Universities under Supervision of GEAC
GEAC should be headed by an Expert in Bio Tech
Comprehensive Study to Better Asses the Success of BT Cotton
Participatory, Independent and Transparent Manner should be adopted to take decisions
Bio Remediation
Bioremediation has been defined as “Use of living organisms to clean up or remove pollutants from soil, water, or wastewater ; use of organisms such as non harmful insects to remove agricultural pests or counteract diseases of trees, plants, and garden soil,” as reported by US EPA, United States Environmental Protection ...
Bio Energy & Bio Fuels
Difference Between Fuel and Bio Fuel
Biofuel is produced from renewable resources while petrol is produced from non-renewable crude oil reserves.Thus, bioethanol and biodiesel are sustainable fuels, which may be continually produced while petrol is unsustainable.
Bio Energy
Bio Energy derived from Combustion of Bio Mass. Bio Energy is of Two Types
Traditional Bio Energy → Wood, Cow Dung & Animal Waste, Conventional Charcoal
Modern Bio Energy → Bio Fuels (Bio Ethanol, Bio Diesel), Bio Gas
Bio Fuels are Categorised into four Generations
based on the source from where they are made from
They are essentially made from Fermentation of Bio Mass. Fermentation is chemical breakdown of organic molecules in presence of Microbes. It is made by Fermentation of Sugars found in wheat, rice, etc
First Generation → Food Crop
Second Generation → Non Food Crop + Damaged Food Crop + Used or Waste Cooking Oil
Third Generation → Micro Organism like Algae & Yeast
Fourth Generation → Grow Specific GM Crops which will absorb CO2 during the Lifetime and their Bio Mass can be converted into Bio Fuel
National Bio Fuel Policy of 2018
Features
It divides the Bio Fuels into Two Categories
Basic Bio Fuels → 1G
Advanced Bio Fuels → 2G & 3G
The Policy allows use of Surplus Food grains for ethanol Blending
Criticism of 1G is that it uses Food Crop in a Hungry Country like India. Policy Allows for usage of Food Crops for 1G only in case of Surplus
Policy focuses on Advanced Bio Fuels so it provides Financial Supports to 2G & 3G Ethanol Refineries
Provides Tax Incentives & Offers Better Prices compared to 1G
Targets of Ethanol Blending
To Reduce Import Bills, Govt has changed the Target of Ethanol Blending of Petrol i.e 20% was to be achieved by 2030 but now it should be now be done by 2023
Because 85% of Fuel is Imported which costs India to be 4 Lac Crore
“Jaivik Indhan Vatavaran Fasal Anukul Avsheshan Nivaran” Program of Govt of India (Program of JIVAN)
Obj : Development of Business Venture & Advanced R&D in 2G Ethanol Market
Gobar Dhan Yojana
It focuses on Managing and Turning Solid Farm Waste such as animal dung into compost, bio gas and bio cng
