About This Book
Plant genetic engineering, also known as genetic modification (GM), has revolutionized agriculture by
enabling the development of crops with enhanced traits. One of the primary applications is the creation of
genetically modified (GM) crops with improved resistance to pests, diseases, and environmental stresses. For
example, Bt cotton and Bt corn are engineered to express proteins from the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis,
which provide resistance to specific insect pests, reducing the need for chemical pesticides. Another important
application is the development of herbicide-resistant crops, such as glyphosate-resistant soybeans. These
crops allow farmers to apply herbicides for weed control without damaging the crops themselves, increasing
yield and reducing labor costs. Genetic engineering also enables the enhancement of nutritional content in
crops. For instance, Golden Rice is engineered to produce higher levels of provitamin A (beta-carotene),
addressing vitamin A deficiencies in developing countries. Furthermore, stress-resistant crops are being
developed to withstand harsh environmental conditions like drought, salinity, and extreme temperatures.
These crops can maintain yield and quality even in adverse climates, ensuring food security in the face of
climate change. In addition to these, plant genetic engineering has applications in biopharmaceutical
production, where genetically engineered plants are used to produce vaccines, therapeutic proteins, and other
valuable compounds, offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional methods. Applications of Plant Genetic
Engineering explores the innovative ways in which genetic modification techniques are used to enhance
agricultural productivity, nutritional content, and environmental resilience in plants.
Contents: 1. Plant Genetic Engineering, 2. Genetic Modification in Plants for Agricultural Advancements,
3. Seed Genebanks and their Contribution to Genetic Resource Conservation, 4. Approaches to Genetic
Transformation in Plants, 5. Gene Transfer Techniques for Plant Improvement, 6. Methods and Advantages of
Plant Hybridization, 7. The Role of Genetic Variation in Plant Adaptation, 8. Application of Genetic Engineering
in the Field of Agriculture, 9. Chromosome Mapping and its Role in Genetic Linkage, 10. Genetic Basis of
Interspecific Variation, 11. The Role of Genetic Change in the Formation of New Species.