GS PrelimsScience and TechnologyBiotechnology2010

Genetically modified "golden rice" has been engineered to meet human nutritional requirements. Which one of the following statements best qualifies golden rice ?

A

The grains have been fortified with genes to provide three times higher grain yield per acre than other high yielding varieties

B

Its grains contain pro-vitamin A which upon ingestion is converted to vitamin A in the human body

C

Its modified genes cause the synthesis of all the nine essential amino acids

D

Its modified genes cause the fortification of its grains with vitamin D.

Correct Answer: Option B

Explanation

1. Golden rice is a variety of rice (Oryza sativa) that has been genetically modified to produce beta-carotene. 2. Beta-carotene is a pigment found in many plants (like carrots) and is a precursor to vitamin A. It is therefore also known as pro-vitamin A. 3. The primary goal of developing golden rice was to create a fortified staple crop that could help combat vitamin A deficiency, a major public health issue in regions where rice is the main dietary component. 4. When humans ingest golden rice, their bodies can convert the beta-carotene (pro-vitamin A) into vitamin A, thus helping meet human nutritional requirements for this vitamin. 5. Option (B) accurately describes this key feature: its grains contain pro-vitamin A which upon ingestion is converted to vitamin A in the human body. Options A, C, and D describe incorrect modifications.

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