In somatic hybridization, plant cells are treated with pectinase and cellulase to

Options

A. Remove the nucleus from the cell
B. Dissolve the cell wall
C. Fuse the nucleus of two cells
D. Remove the plasma membrane

Answer

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Somatic Hybridization**: Somatic hybridization is a technique used in plant biotechnology where two different plant cells are fused to create a hybrid cell. This process allows for the combination of genetic material from two different species.

2. **Role of Cell Walls**: Plant cells have rigid cell walls made primarily of cellulose and pectin, which provide structural support. In somatic hybridization, it is essential to remove these cell walls to facilitate the fusion of the protoplasts (the cell contents without the cell wall).

3. **Enzymatic Treatment**: To remove the cell walls, specific enzymes are used. The two key enzymes in this process are:
- **Pectinase**: This enzyme breaks down pectin, a component of the plant cell wall.
- **Cellulase**: This enzyme breaks down cellulose, another major component of the plant cell wall.

4. **Process of Enzyme Action**: When plant cells are treated with pectinase and cellulase, the enzymes degrade the cell wall components. This degradation allows the protoplasts to be isolated and makes it easier for the cells to come into contact with each other for fusion.

5. **Conclusion**: The treatment of plant cells with pectinase and cellulase is crucial in somatic hybridization as it dissolves the cell wall, enabling the fusion of protoplasts and facilitating the subsequent steps in hybridization.

### Final Answer:
In somatic hybridization, plant cells are treated with pectinase and cellulase to dissolve the cell wall, allowing for the fusion of protoplasts.

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