Which of the following two core techniques enabled birth of modern biotechnology? (a) Genetic engineering (b) Electrophoresis (c) Maintenance of sterile ambience in chemical engineering processes (d) Development of competent hosts

Options

A. (a) and (b)
B. (a) and (c)
C. (b) and (d)
D. (b) and (c)

Answer

To determine which two core techniques enabled the birth of modern biotechnology, we can analyze the options provided:

1. **Genetic Engineering**: This technique involves altering the genetic material (DNA or RNA) of an organism. By changing the genetic makeup, we can modify the phenotype (observable traits) of the organism to produce desired traits or products. This foundational technique is essential for modern biotechnology.

2. **Electrophoresis**: This is a method used to separate charged molecules, such as DNA, based on their size and charge. While it is a crucial technique in molecular biology for analyzing genetic material, it is more of a supporting technique rather than a core technique that directly contributes to the birth of modern biotechnology.

3. **Maintenance of Sterile Ambience in Chemical Engineering Processes**: This technique ensures that the environment is free from microbes, which can enhance productivity in biotechnological processes. However, it is not a core technique that directly led to the birth of modern biotechnology.

4. **Development of Competent Hosts**: This involves preparing host cells to take up foreign DNA, often through methods like heat shock or calcium treatment. While this is important in the context of genetic engineering, it is more of a procedural step rather than a foundational technique.

Based on the analysis, the two core techniques that enabled the birth of modern biotechnology are:

- **(a) Genetic Engineering**
- **(c) Maintenance of sterile ambience in chemical engineering processes**

### Step-by-Step Solution:
1. **Identify the Techniques**: Review the options provided and understand what each technique entails.
2. **Evaluate Genetic Engineering**: Recognize that genetic engineering is a fundamental technique that alters genetic material to produce desired traits.
3. **Consider Electrophoresis**: Understand that while important for analysis, it does not directly contribute to the birth of modern biotechnology.
4. **Assess Sterile Ambience**: Acknowledge that maintaining a sterile environment is crucial for productivity but is not a core technique.
5. **Analyze Competent Hosts**: Realize that developing competent hosts is necessary for genetic engineering but is not a foundational technique.
6. **Conclude**: Based on the evaluations, conclude that genetic engineering and maintenance of sterile ambience are the two core techniques that enabled the birth of modern biotechnology.