Microbial Sources of Drugs — NEET Biology

Correct answer: B — S1, S2, and S3 are correct.

This question assesses the understanding of specific microbial products, their sources, and their correct applications or characteristics as detailed in NCERT Chapter 8, 'Microbes in Human Welfare'. Let's evaluate each statement: - **S1: Streptokinase, a genetically modified enzyme from *Streptococcus*, is effectively used as a 'clot buster' in patients suffering from myocardial infarction.** This statement is correct. Streptokinase helps in dissolving blood clots. (NCERT Page 153, Para 1) - **S2: Cyclosporin A, produced by *Trichoderma polysporum*, functions as an immunosuppressive agent primarily for preventing organ rejection in transplant patients.** This statement is correct. Cyclosporin A is crucial for organ transplant patients to suppress their immune response. (NCERT Page 153, Para 3) - **S3: Statins obtained from the yeast *Monascus purpureus* are competitive inhibitors of the enzyme responsible for cholesterol synthesis, thus acting as blood-cholesterol lowering agents.** This statement is correct. Statins work by inhibiting the body's cholesterol production pathway. (NCERT Page 153, Para 3) - **S4: Lipases produced by microbes are incorporated into detergent formulations and are particularly helpful in clarifying bottled fruit juices.** This statement is incorrect. While lipases are used in detergents to remove oily stains, pectinases and proteases are the enzymes used for clarifying bottled fruit juices. (NCERT Page 153, Para 1) - **S5: The large holes characteristic of Swiss cheese are due to the extensive production of methane gas by *Propionibacterium sharmanii*.** This statement is incorrect. The large holes in Swiss cheese are due to the production of a large amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) gas, not methane, by *Propionibacterium sharmanii*. (NCERT Page 151, Para 2) Based on the analysis, only S1, S2, and S3 are correct statements. Therefore, option B is the correct answer.