Flavr Savr Tomato has increased

Options

A. Productivity
B. Vigour
C. Shelf life
D. Flowering period

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Question**: The question is about Flavr Savr Tomato and what it has increased. The options given are productivity, shelf life, and flowering period.

2. **Identifying the Correct Option**: Flavr Savr Tomato is a genetically modified variety of tomato. The key feature of this tomato is its increased shelf life.

3. **Mechanism of Action**: The Flavr Savr Tomato was developed by inserting an antisense gene. This gene interferes with the production of an enzyme called beta-polygalacturonase.

4. **Role of Beta-Polygalacturonase**: This enzyme normally breaks down pectin in the cell walls of the tomato, leading to softening of the fruit. Softened fruit is more susceptible to damage and rotting.

5. **Impact of the Antisense Gene**: By inserting the antisense gene, the production of beta-polygalacturonase is reduced. This means that the pectin in the cell walls remains intact longer, which prevents the fruit from softening too quickly and increases its shelf life.

6. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the Flavr Savr Tomato has increased its shelf life due to the genetic modification that inhibits the enzyme responsible for fruit softening.

7. **Final Answer**: The correct option is shelf life.

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