In order to be transported throughout a plant, viruses exploit __________.

• A. the xylem's ability to transport minerals from roots to shoots
• B. the apoplast
• C. the ability of phloem to transmit electrical signals
• D. the Casparian strip
• E. the ability of plasmodesmata to dilate to allow large particles to move between cells

Answer: (E)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of plasmodesmata in plant cells: Plasmodesmata are microscopic channels that traverse the cell walls of plant cells, allowing for transport and communication between them.
2. Recognize the function of plasmodesmata in viral movement: Viruses can exploit plasmodesmata by causing them to dilate, which allows larger particles, such as viral particles, to move between cells.
3. Differentiate between the transport systems in plants: The xylem primarily transports water and minerals, while the phloem transports nutrients and can transmit electrical signals. Neither is directly involved in viral movement.
4. Consider the role of the apoplast and Casparian strip: The apoplast is the space outside the plasma membrane within which material can diffuse freely, and the Casparian strip is a barrier in the roots that regulates water and mineral uptake. These are not directly involved in viral transport.
5. Conclude that plasmodesmata are the correct answer: Given their ability to dilate and facilitate the movement of large particles between cells, plasmodesmata are the structures exploited by viruses for transport throughout a plant.