Which of the following is/are an example/s of direct gene transfer?

Options

A. Microinjection
B. Electroporation
C. Particle gun
D. All of these

Answer

To determine which of the following methods are examples of direct gene transfer, we will analyze each option provided in the question:

1. **Microinjection**:
- In this method, recombinant DNA is directly injected into the nucleus of a target cell using a fine glass needle. This technique allows for the precise introduction of DNA into the cell without the need for a vector. Therefore, microinjection is indeed a method of direct gene transfer.

2. **Electroporation**:
- Electroporation involves applying an electric field to cells, which creates temporary pores in the cell membrane. This allows foreign DNA to enter the cell directly through these pores. Since this method does not require a vector for DNA transfer, it is also classified as direct gene transfer.

3. **Particle Gun (Biolistic Method)**:
- The particle gun method, also known as the biolistic method, involves bombarding target cells with high-velocity microparticles (often made of gold or tungsten) that are coated with DNA. This method allows for the direct introduction of DNA into the cells without using a vector. Thus, it is another example of direct gene transfer.

4. **All of the Above**:
- Since all three methods (microinjection, electroporation, and particle gun) qualify as direct gene transfer techniques, the correct answer to the question is "all of these."

**Final Answer**: All of these methods are examples of direct gene transfer.