One example of an innovation from an unexpected source comes from studies of tumor-like plant growths. What information did the study of plant tumors provide that was critical for plant genetic engineering?
A) understanding the role of plant hormones in growth promotion
B) knowledge of plant tumor suppressor and proto-oncogenes
C) learning that metastasis is critical for tumor progression
D) learning the biosynthetic pathway to β-carotene
E) discovery of a plasmid that could be modified to introduce genes into plants

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The study of plant tumors led to the discovery of a plasmid that could be modified to introduce genes into plants, which was critical for plant genetic engineering. This plasmid, called Agrobacterium tumefaciens, is now commonly used for creating genetically modified crops.

One Example of an Innovation from an Unexpected Source Comes