Which enzyme modified by genetic engineering is used as a 'clot buster'?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 3
The correct answer is Option (3) → Streptokinase
Option (1) Lipase — Incorrect. Lipases are used in detergents to remove oily stains from clothes.
Option (2) Pectinase — Incorrect. Pectinases, with proteases, are used to clear bottled fruit juices.
Option (3) Streptokinase — Correct. It is the only enzyme among the options that acts on blood clots. Its name comes from the bacterium Streptococcus, which makes it, and ‘clot buster’ means that it removes clots.
Option (4) Statins — Incorrect. Statins are not enzymes; they lower blood cholesterol by blocking the enzyme that makes it.
Note: A similar question was also asked in CUET (UG) 2023 on 05-06-2023 (Slot 3).
NCERT Extract:
Chemicals, Enzymes and Other Bioactive Molecules – “… You must have noticed that bottled fruit juices bought from the market are clearer as compared to those made at home. This is because the bottled juices are clarified by the use of pectinases and proteases. 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.”