A Plant Virus Is Destroying Corn Crops

question 71

Essay

A plant virus is destroying corn crops. Scientists have determined a mutation that prevents the virus from attaching to the plant cells (and thus preventing infection) without altering the function of the protein or the corn. How would a CRISPR-based gene drive allow scientists to insert this gene into the yet-to-be-planted corn crops.

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Definitions:

Pessimistic

Characterized by a belief that the worst will happen or a general lack of hope for the future.

Sensation Seeking

The tendency to seek out varied, novel, complex, and intense experiences and the willingness to take physical, social, legal, and financial risks for the sake of such experiences.

Conformist Lifestyle

A way of living that closely follows the norms, values, and expectations of society, often at the expense of individuality.

Self-Efficacy

The belief in one's capabilities to organize and execute the courses of action required to manage prospective situations.