NEETZoologyMicrobes in Human Welfare
The bioactive molecule produced by the yeast Monascus purpureus is commercially used as:
Options
- AA blood-cholesterol lowering agent
- BA 'clot buster' for removing clots from blood vessels
- CAn immunosuppressive agent in organ-transplant patients
- DAn antibiotic for treating bacterial infections
Correct answer
A. A blood-cholesterol lowering agent
Step-by-step solution
Statins are produced by the yeast Monascus purpureus and have been commercialised as blood-cholesterol lowering agents. They act by competitively inhibiting the enzyme responsible for the synthesis of cholesterol. Streptokinase acts as a 'clot buster', cyclosporin A is used as an immunosuppressive agent, and antibiotics like penicillin are produced by fungi like Penicillium notatum. Answer: A blood-cholesterol lowering agent