Which of the following is commonly used as a vector for introducing a DNA fragment in human lymphocytes? (NEET 2018)
Answer: (C) Retrovirus. Answer: (3) Retrovirus Solution: In ADA-deficiency gene therapy, lymphocytes from the patient's blood are grown in culture and a functional ADA cDNA is introduced into them using a retroviral vector, after which the cells are returned to the patient.
- A.λ phage
- B.Ti plasmid
- C.Retrovirus✓
- D.pBR 322
Correct Answer
(C) Retrovirus
Solution & Explanation
Answer: (3) Retrovirus Solution: In ADA-deficiency gene therapy, lymphocytes from the patient's blood are grown in culture and a functional ADA cDNA is introduced into them using a retroviral vector, after which the cells are returned to the patient. Ti plasmid is for plants; λ phage and pBR322 are cloning vectors, not used to transfer genes into human lymphocytes. NCERT Reference: Ch 10, p.182, line 34 — "A functional ADA cDNA (using a retroviral vector) is then"