All questions of Biotechnology for BPSC (Bihar) Exam

The text states that the primary mission of the Department of Biotechnology in India is to focus on developing human resources, creating appropriate infrastructure, and promoting research and development in biotechnology. This includes strengthening indigenous capabilities in this field.

Influenza is a viral disease caused by the influenza virus. It is commonly known as the flu.

Multidrug therapy (MDT)
Multidrug therapy (MDT) is the recommended treatment for leprosy by the World Health Organization (WHO). It involves the use of a combination of three antibiotics - rifampicin, clofazimine, and dapsone. This combination therapy is highly effective in treating all forms of leprosy, including paucibacillary and multibacillary leprosy.

Components of MDT:
- Rifampicin: Rifampicin is a powerful antibiotic that is effective against the bacteria that cause leprosy. It is a key component of MDT and is usually given as a monthly dose.
- Clofazimine: Clofazimine is another antibiotic that is used in the treatment of leprosy. It helps to kill the bacteria that cause the disease and reduce inflammation in the skin.
- Dapsone: Dapsone is also an antibiotic that is included in the MDT regimen. It works by inhibiting the growth of the bacteria that cause leprosy.

Benefits of MDT:
- High cure rates: MDT has been shown to be highly effective in curing leprosy and preventing the development of drug resistance.
- Short treatment duration: MDT is usually given for a period of 6 to 12 months, depending on the severity of the disease. This relatively short treatment duration helps to improve patient compliance.
- Low risk of side effects: MDT is generally well-tolerated by patients and has a low risk of serious side effects.
In conclusion, multidrug therapy (MDT) is the standard treatment for leprosy that involves a combination of rifampicin, clofazimine, and dapsone. This regimen is highly effective, relatively short in duration, and well-tolerated by patients, making it the treatment of choice for individuals with leprosy.

The primary goal of the US-India Knowledge Initiative on Agricultural Education, Teaching, Research, Services, and Commercial Linkages (KIA agreement) is to establish control over Indian agricultural research by US-based multinational corporations.

According to the text, the passing of the BRAI bill is linked to the interests of multinational corporations because it simplifies the commercialization process of genetically modified (GM) crops, making it more favorable for multinational corporations in the agricultural sector.

The main purpose of DNA fingerprinting, as mentioned in the text, is to identify individuals based on unique DNA sequences. DNA fingerprinting is a technique used in forensic science and paternity testing to determine the identity of an individual by analyzing their DNA.

What is DNA fingerprinting?
DNA fingerprinting, also known as DNA profiling or genetic fingerprinting, is a method used to analyze an individual's unique DNA sequence. It involves the comparison of specific regions of DNA called short tandem repeats (STRs), which are highly variable between individuals.

How does DNA fingerprinting work?
DNA fingerprinting involves several steps:

1. DNA extraction: DNA is extracted from a sample, such as blood, saliva, or hair follicles.

2. PCR amplification: Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) is used to amplify specific regions of the DNA, such as the STRs.

3. Gel electrophoresis: The amplified DNA fragments are separated based on their size using gel electrophoresis. The fragments are loaded into wells in a gel and an electric current is applied, causing the fragments to migrate through the gel. Smaller fragments move faster than larger fragments, resulting in distinct bands on the gel.

4. DNA analysis: The gel is stained to make the DNA bands visible, and the resulting DNA profile is analyzed. The number and size of the bands in the DNA profile are unique to each individual, like a genetic fingerprint.

Why is DNA fingerprinting used?
DNA fingerprinting has several applications, including:

1. Forensic identification: DNA found at a crime scene can be compared to DNA samples from suspects to determine if there is a match. This can help identify the perpetrator or exonerate innocent individuals.

2. Paternity testing: DNA samples from a child and potential parents can be analyzed to determine biological parentage. By comparing the DNA profiles, it can be established with a high degree of certainty whether an individual is the biological parent of a child.

3. Genetic genealogy: DNA fingerprinting can be used to trace ancestral lineages and determine relationships between individuals. It has been used to solve cold cases and identify long-lost relatives.

Conclusion
In conclusion, the main purpose of DNA fingerprinting is to identify individuals based on their unique DNA sequences. This technique has revolutionized forensic science and paternity testing, providing a powerful tool for identifying individuals and establishing biological relationships. DNA fingerprinting has had a significant impact in the field of criminal justice and has helped solve numerous cases while ensuring justice and accuracy.

Antigens play a crucial role in the immune system as they are responsible for identifying and fighting against foreign substances in the body. These foreign substances, known as pathogens, can include bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microorganisms that can cause infections or diseases. The primary role of antigens is to initiate an immune response to eliminate these harmful invaders.

The immune system is a complex network of cells, tissues, and organs that work together to protect the body from pathogens. When a pathogen enters the body, it is recognized by the immune system as foreign and potentially harmful. This recognition is possible due to the presence of antigens on the surface of the pathogen.

Antigens are unique molecules that can be found on the surface of pathogens or even on the surface of our body's own cells. Each antigen has a specific shape and structure that is recognized by the immune system. When an antigen is detected, it triggers an immune response to eliminate the pathogen.

The immune response involves several key components, including the production of antibodies. Antibodies are proteins produced by specialized immune cells called B cells. These antibodies are designed to bind specifically to the antigens on the surface of the pathogen, marking it for destruction by other immune cells.

The immune system also has other mechanisms to fight against pathogens, such as the activation of T cells. T cells are another type of immune cell that can recognize and destroy infected cells directly.

In summary, the primary role of antigens in the immune system is to identify and trigger an immune response against foreign substances. They play a crucial role in initiating the production of antibodies and activating immune cells to eliminate pathogens and protect the body from infections and diseases.

DNA bar-coding is primarily used for identifying plant leaves, even in the absence of fruit. It is a valuable tool for species identification in various fields, including botany.

Microinjection is a technique that involves directly injecting foreign DNA into recipient cells using a fine microsyringe under a microscope. This precise method is used for genetic engineering.

DNA sequencing is used in agriculture for the production of genetically modified crops. Specific genes are introduced to make crops resistant to pests and herbicides.

Antibodies are proteins manufactured by the body to fight against foreign substances called antigens. They attach to antigens and inactivate them, playing a crucial role in the immune system's defense against infections.

According to the European Federation of Biotechnology, biotechnology is defined as "The integration of natural science and organisms, cells, parts thereof and molecular analogues for products and services." This definition emphasizes the use of living organisms and biological processes for various applications.

Genome sequencing is the process of obtaining the complex DNA sequence of an organism's genome. It provides valuable information for various scientific and medical purposes.

The Global Fund for AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria is a partnership aimed at providing funding and resources to combat these infectious diseases worldwide.

The Biotechnology Regulatory Appellate Tribunal plays a role in hearing civil cases related to biotechnology and appeals on decisions and orders made by the Biotechnology Regulatory Authority.

The main purpose of the Biotechnology Regulatory Authority of India (BRAI) as discussed in the text is to establish a strong regulatory framework for biotechnology, including the research, transport, import, and environmental release of biotechnology products.

The first methods for sequencing DNA were developed by Fred Sanger, as well as by Walter Gilbert and Allan Maxam. Fred Sanger's method remains a basis for modern DNA sequencing techniques.

In the context of biosafety legislation, the "Precautionary Principle" means taking precautionary measures to ensure the safety of biotechnology products before proceeding with their release or use.

Brewing beer is an example of a traditional biotechnological process where yeast, a living organism, is used to produce beer through fermentation. This process has been practiced for centuries.

Red blood cells, or RBCs, are responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to the body's tissues and organs. They contain hemoglobin, a protein that binds to oxygen.

"Green biotechnology" mainly focuses on improving agricultural and food production, including efforts to fight pests, enhance crop nutrition, and strengthen crops against environmental challenges.

Type 1 diabetes is characterized by deficient insulin production and usually requires daily insulin injections or the use of an insulin pump. It is not preventable with current knowledge.

Diseases that can be passed between animals and humans are known as zoonotic diseases. They include infections like rabies and Ebola.

White biotechnology is primarily focused on improving manufacturing processes, making industries more efficient and sustainable. It is often associated with biofuels and other technologies for industrial applications.

DNA molecules formed by laboratory methods of genetic recombination are known as Recombinant DNA (rDNA). These molecules combine genetic material from multiple sources.

In the context of biotechnology applications, "Red biotechnology" refers to the branch related to healthcare and medical advancements. It includes the development of vaccines, medications, and regenerative therapies.

Tetanus is a bacterial disease caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani. It affects the nervous system and can lead to muscle stiffness and spasms.

DNA primarily serves as the storehouse of genetic information in organisms. It carries the instructions needed for the growth, development, and functioning of living organisms.

Polygenic disorders are caused by multiple genes and may contribute to the risk of developing conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and obesity.

The text mentions that the establishment of the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) in India was necessary to address challenges in research, infrastructure, and human resources in biotechnology. It aimed to develop these aspects of biotechnology.