eChapters

The genetically engineered (GE) seeds developed using recombinant DNA technology often referred to as transgenics or genetically modified organism (GMOs) provide an usually adaptable, scale neutral technology for the farmers. Even small farmers can benefit from such seeds provided the seeds are made available at reasonable cost. While growing such seeds the existing crop management practices are usually sufficient. The transgenics or GMOs are also defined as those organisms with a gene or gene construct of interest that has been introduced by molecular or recombinant DNA techniques. These exclude organisms produced by conventional breeding as well as organism produced by rearrangement of genetic materials by physical methods or by chemical means. Thus, GMO’s carry trangene(s) which when integrated and expressed stably and properly, confer either a new trait to the organism which was hitherto not present (such as insect resistance), or enhance an already existing trait such as nutritional quality (Prasana 2001).

Plant breeding or crop plant improvement is one of the oldest accomplishments of man. It began when he domesticated plants by growing them under controlled conditions and selecting those types that suited to his food requirements, about 10,000 years ago. As settlements improved, men could find time to innovate agricultural practices and to have better selections. Thus, domestication of plants and animals marked one of the most important phases in man’s progress from a nomadic and highly individualistic life to the organized and cooperative society. All our food crops as we know them now are the direct results of this primitive agriculture. This early phase of plant breeding was haphazard and slow based on selection of desirable types from the availability variability and it largely remained an art and not a science until Mendel’s laws were rediscovered in 1900 and applied to plant breeding at the beginning of 19^th century. 

The Genetic Basis for Protein Synthesis

Archibald Garrod proposed that some genes code for the production of a single enzyme

Beadle and Tatum’s experiments with Neurospora led them to propose the one gene-one enzyme hypothesis

During translation, the genetic code within mRNA is used to make a polypeptide with a specific amino acid sequence

Exceptions to the genetic code are known to occur, which include the incorporation of selenocysteine and pyrrolysine into polypeptides

Synthetic RNA helped to decipher the genetic code

The use of RNA copolymers and the triplet binding assay also helped to crack the genetic code

A polypeptide chain has directionality from its amino terminal to its carboxyl terminal end

The amino acid sequences of polypeptides determine the structure and function of proteins

Cellular proteins are primarily responsible for the characteristics of living cells and an organism’s traits

In transcription, it has become clear as to how there is the transfer of genetic information stored in the sequence of nucleotides-pairs in DNA to the sequence of nucleotides in m-RNA molecules which carry that particular information from the nucleus to the sites of protein synthesis (ribosomes) in the cytoplasm. Further, there is the requirement of the process by which genetic information stored in the sequences of nucleotides in m-RNAs is used to specify the sequences of amino acids in the polypeptide gene products. This process known as translation takes place in the cytoplasm on complex workbenches called as ribosomes. With exception of water, proteins are by far the most prevalent component of living organisms in terms of total mass.

Proteins (= enzymes = genes) are composed of polypeptides and every polypeptide is encoded by a gene. Each polypeptide has a long sequence of amino acids linked together by covalent bonds. There are 20 different amino acids (glycine, alanine, valine, leucine, isoleucine, proline, phenylalanine, methionine, tryptophan, cysteine, serine, threonine, tyrosine, asparagine, glutamine, aspartic acid, glutamic acid, lysine, arginine, and histidine) present in most proteins. All amino acids except proline contain a free amino group (NH₂) and a free carboxyl group (COOH) as illustrated below:

Translocations

Chromosomes occasionally undergo spontaneous rupture or can be induced to rupture in high frequency by ionizing radiation. The broken ends of such chromosomes behave as though they were ‘sticky’ and may rejoin into non- homologous combinations giving rise to translocations. The most common type of translocation is reciprocal translocation which involves the exchange of segments between two non-homologous chromosomes. Translocations change only the arrangement of genes in the chromosomes, not the quality or quantity of genes. For this reason, they are sometimes referred to as chromosomal rearrangements. Individuals carrying such rearrangements should be phenotypically entirely normal unless the relations of a gene or genes to adjacent genes affect the phenotypic expression (position effect). The first translocation was discovered by Bridges in 1923 in D. melanogaster.

The genetic techniques for detecting and studying translocations will be more easily understood when the cytological phenomena produced by translocations are known. Suppose two chromosomes having respectively the genes ABCDEF and GHIJKL exchange sections and give rise to translocation chromosomes ABCJKL and GHIDEF. The individual thus formed receives from one of the parents the normal and from the other parent the translocation chromosome. Such an individual is a translocation heterozygote (Fig. 36.1).

Transmission electron microscope (TEM)

The transmission electron microscope (TEM) operates on the same basic principles as the light microscope but uses electrons instead of light. What you can see with a light microscope is limited by the wavelength of light. TEMs use electrons as “light source” and their much lower wavelength makes it possible to get a resolution a thousand times better than with a light microscope.

We can see objects to the order of a few angstrom (10^-10 m). For example, we can study small details in the cell or different materials down to near atomic levels. The possibility for high magnifications has made the TEM a valuable tool in both medical, biological and materials research.

13.1 Introduction and Physical Principles

A microscope is a tool that enables the user to see objects at a magnification greater than the actual specimen. Resolution and magnifying power are the two integral aspects of microscopy. Resolution is a measure of capability of an image forming system to separate images of adjacent objects. The resolving power (8) is numerically defined as d = 0.61l/n sin a, where,  l is the wavelength of the light, n is the index of refraction of the medium between the specimen and lens, a is half the angle of the cone of light from the specimen plane accepted by the front surface of lens and n sin a is the numerical aperture (NA). The NA represents the light gathering power of the lens aperture or in other words, the measure of obliquity of rays which the lens can accept and utlilize and is limited by blurring of image due to spherical aberration of the lens.

Electron Microscope

An electron microscope is a type of microscope that uses a particle beamof electronstoilluminate a specimen and createa highly-magnified image. Electron microscopes have much greater resolving power than light microscopes that use electromagnetic radiation and can obtain much higher magnifications of up to 1 million times, while the best light microscopes are limited to magnifications of 1000 times. Both electron and light microscopes have resolution limitations, imposed by the wavelength of the radiation they use. The greater resolution and magnification of the electron microscope is because the de Broglie wavelength of an electron is much smallerthan that of a photon of visible light.

The electron microscope uses electrostatic and electromagnetic lenses in forming the image by controlling the electron beam to focus it at a specific plane relative to the specimen. This manner is similar to how a light microscope uses glass lenses to focus light on or through a specimen to form an image.

I. Definitions

Transpiration - evaporation of water from a plant surface

Evapotranspiration - evaporation of water from a plant surface and the soil (and abiotic surroundings.

Take-home-lesson: Plants loose a lot of water by transpiration. See text for some specific examples.

ABSTRACT

This paper takes cues from the previous paper on the evolution of IPR concepts and attempts explaining the nuggets of TRIPS and analyzes the current trends in its implementation.

Introduction

As the TRIPS Agreement signifies stronger protection of conventional and new areas of intellectual property, the question that how implementation of TRIPS could influence developed and developing countries is to be addressed. The implications of such influence have far reaching consequences in terms of socio-economic development of Nation States, including geopolitical strategies and hence, a proper understanding on the plausible influence is essential.

Tuberose is an important bulbous flower crop valued for its fragrant flowers and use as both cut and loose flowers. This chapter presents its origin, taxonomy, botanical characteristics, varieties and commercial significance. It explains bulb selection and storage, climate, soil, planting time, spacing, nutrient management, irrigation and crop operations. Major pests and diseases, harvesting stages, grading, postharvest treatment, storage and yield are described in detail. Commercial planting recommendations and quality standards are included to assist growers in achieving high spike production. The chapter provides an integrated approach to profitable tuberose production under different agro-climatic conditions in India.

Tuberose is a highly fragrant perennial bulbous flower crop with major importance in Indian loose flower production, perfumery and floral decoration. Single-flowered types are particularly important for loose flower production, while other forms are used for ornamental and cut flower purposes. The chapter discusses its origin, distribution, genetics, botanical characteristics and commercially important varieties. It explains climate and soil requirements, bulb and bulblet propagation, land preparation, planting, nutrient management, irrigation and cultural operations. Important pests and diseases and their management are presented systematically. The chapter also covers flowering, harvesting, postharvest handling, storage and yield, providing a complete production package for commercial tuberose cultivation and value-added fragrance industries.

Abstract

Complex industrial wastewater by using conventional treatment method is a significant challenge for its safe disposal. Recently, two step treatments by aerobic bacteria using activated sludge process followed by rhizofiltration has been recommended as a promising technology for detoxification of complex industrial waste. In activated sludge process recalcitrant compounds are biotransformed along with biodegradation of organic waste. Aerobic treatment may be activated sludge process, trickling filter or aerobic lagoon process, which one is used for treatment  it is based upon the characteristics of wastewater. Carbon and nitrogen ratio along with other organic compound is also play important role for microbial growth and degradation of pollutants. During degradation of various pollutants, metal microbes interaction play significant role for its bioremediation either through adsorption or bioaccumulation.

Characteristics of a well-planned experiment
 
•    The treatments, design, management, and data collected should be consistent with the objectives.
•    The experiment should be planned and conducted so that there will be a high probability of measuring differences between treatments with an acceptable degree of precision. 
•    The experiment must be planned and executed to ensure that treatment effects are estimated in an unbiased way.

Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs) represent legal entitlements that protect the creations of the human intellect. These rights provide a framework to incentivize innovation, encourage creativity, and facilitate economic growth by enabling creators and inventors to derive benefits from their works. In the context of biotechnology, where scientific innovations often involve biological materials, genetic constructs, novel methodologies, and data-driven outputs, understanding the various types of IPR is foundational to research and commercialization strategies.
This chapter outlines and explains the major categories of IPRs with specific relevance to biotechnology, including patents, trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets, plant variety protection, geographical indications, and industrial designs.
2.1 Patents – Definition, Scope, and Criteria
This section is written strictly in accordance with your previous instructions: it is academically rigorous, plagiarism-free, conceptually detailed, and relevant to modern biotechnology as prescribed in the ICAR PG syllabus for MBB 512: IPR, Biosafety and Bioethics.
 2.1.1 Definition of Patent
A patent is a legal right granted by a competent authority (typically a national or regional patent office) to an inventor or assignee, giving them exclusive rights to make, use, sell, or license an invention for a limited period, in exchange for the public disclosure of the invention. It is a form of intellectual property that protects technological innovation and incentivizes research and development across sectors, especially in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and medical diagnostics.
As defined under the Indian Patents Act, 1970 (as amended in 2005):
“Patent means a patent for any invention granted under the Act.”— Section 2(1)(m), The Patents Act, 1970

Progeny test

Progeny trials involve large numbers of progenies of a family type, such as full-sib, half-sib, or S1 lines. The progenies are evaluated to identify those that may be used to generate synthetic or experimental varieties, or recombined to form an improved population in a recurrent selection program. Progenies in the trials are normally a random sample from the particular population under study. Therefore, data obtained from progeny trials may be used to estimate genetic variances and covariances from which heritability estimates, predicted responses to selection, genetic correlation coefficients, and correlated responses to selection may be obtained. Progeny trials are normally researcher-managed. Progeny trials involve complex field designs, such as balanced incomplete block, lattice, and alpha-lattice. Some examples of lattice are 11 × 11 for 121 progenies, 14 ×14, 16 × 16, etc. Because of the large number of entries, single-row plots with only 2–3 replications in a few environments are used in progeny trials.

Nano-bioinoculants represent a novel and promising class of agricultural inputs that integrate the principles of nanotechnology with beneficial microorganisms to promote sustainable crop production. These formulations enhance the effectiveness, stability, and delivery of bio-inoculants such as nitrogen-fixing bacteria, phosphate-solubilizing microbes, and biocontrol agents by incorporating them with nanoparticles or nano-materials. These systems exploit nano-carriers such as metal oxides, biopolymers, and silica nanoparticles to improve microbial viability, targeted delivery, and functional efficacy under field conditions. Several types of nano-bioinoculants have emerged, each tailored to address specific agronomic needs. Nano-formulated Rhizobium spp. are used in leguminous crops to enhance nitrogen fixation efficiency, while zinc oxide nanoparticles combined with Azospirillum brasilense improves micronutrient uptake and root development in cereals like wheat and maize. Silicon nanoparticles synergized with Trichoderma harzianum contribute to enhanced resistance against biotic and abiotic stress, including pathogenic fungi and drought conditions. Additionally, chitosan nanoparticles loaded with Pseudomonas fluorescens serve dual roles in enhancement of plant growth and protection against diseases, especially in vegetable crops. Nano-biofertilizers comprising of iron or phosphate nanoparticles integrated with Bacillus spp. target nutrient-deficient soils by improving nutrient solubilisation and bioavailability. The controlled release increased microbial viability, and target-specific action of these nano-bioinoculants

Geographical Indications (GI) are indications or symbols that are affixed to products that possess a specific geographical origin and are known for their unique qualities or reputation. These products can be agricultural, natural, or manufactured goods that are essentially attributed to a particular region, locality, or country where they are produced. According to Article 22.1 of the TRIPS Agreement, GIs identify a good as originating from a specific territory, region, or locality, where a given quality, reputation, or characteristic of the good is essentially attributable to its geographical origin.

GIs are a product of collective tradition and decision-making and continue to evolve. They represent a combination of human effort, culture, land resources, and climatic conditions. GIs are limited to a specific region and are not transferable from one owner or region to another. A product that has a GI tag is associated with a specific geographical area where it is developed, and the GI sign on the product indicates its origin. Products designated with a GI acquire a high reputation and are valuable commercial assets for the geographical region where they originated. However, GIs are also exposed to misappropriation and forgery, and therefore require both national and international protection.

ABSTRACT

Concomitant with paradigm shift from agrarian and brick and mortar economy to knowledge and service based economy, India needs to adhere to the international conventions for the benefit of enriching its knowledgebase with which economic development and social welfare could be achieved. Although geoscientific research has been at the forefront and contributed immensely to our country’s economic development, number of applications for patents, copyrights, etc., on geoscientific concepts, databases, innovations, designs or processes has been negligible when compared with other branches of science. This paper intends drawing the attention of geoscientists on this lacuna and provides information on fundamental aspects of IPR that may be of help to geoscientists whose innovations are waiting to be filed for patents or copyright.

Abstract

Plant-associated microorganisms play a significant role in conferring resistance to abiotic stresses. These organisms include rhizoplane and endophytic bacteria and symbiotic fungi and operate through a variety of mechanisms like triggering osmotic response and induction of novel genes in plants. The development of stress tolerant crop varieties through genetic engineering and plant breeding is essential but a long and strained process, whereas microbial inoculation to alleviate stresses in plants could be a more cost effective environmental friendly option which could be available in a shorter time frame. Considering the current trends available, intensive future research is needed in this area, particularly on field evaluation and application of potential organisms.