NEETZoologyMicrobes in Human Welfare
What is the function of statins?
Options
- AClot removal
- BCholesterol reduction
- CEnzyme production
- DImmunosuppression
Correct answer
B. Cholesterol reduction
Step-by-step solution
Streptokinase produced by the bacterium Streptococcus and modified by genetic engineering is used as a ‘clot buster’ for removing clots from the blood vessels of patients who have undergone myocardial infarction leading to heart attack. Another bioactive molecule, cyclosporin A, that is used as an immunosuppressive agent in organ-transplant patients, is produced by the fungus Trichoderma polysporum. Statins produced by the yeast Monascus purpureus have been commercialised as blood-cholesterol lowering agents. It ac