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Have we proven the concept that every cell in a plant has the genetic potential to reproduce the entire plant?

a) yes
b) no

User Pmdj
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

Every cell in a plant has been proven to have the potential to reproduce the entire plant, a concept exemplified by somatic embryogenesis and asexual reproduction.

Step-by-step explanation:

Yes, we have proven the concept that every cell in a plant has the genetic potential to reproduce the entire plant. This developmental potential is observed in the process known as somatic embryogenesis, where a non-zygotic cell can develop into a new multicellular plant organism. Examples of this include Bryophyllum, which can grow new plants on the edges of its leaves, and the bulb-bearing fern that produces structures which then detach and mature into new plants. Additionally, asexual reproduction in plants leads to offspring that are genetically identical to the parent, further supporting that plant cells contain all the necessary genetic information for the development of the entire organism.

The concept that every cell in a plant has the genetic potential to reproduce the entire plant has not been proven. While plants have the ability to regenerate from certain cells, such as somatic cells, and can reproduce asexually through methods like spores or vegetative propagation, not all cells have the ability to develop into a new multicellular organism. This potential is only revealed in certain cells, such as zygotes or specific leaf cells, which behave like a zygote.

User Cityof
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