Target Exam

CUET

Subject

Biology

Chapter

Microbes in Human Welfare

Question:

Cyclosporin A, which is used as an immunosuppressive agent, is produced by:

Options:

Staphylococcus

Penicillium notatum

Trichoderma polysporum

Monascus purpureus

Correct Answer:

Trichoderma polysporum

Explanation:

The correct answer is Option (3) - Trichoderma polysporum

Statins produced by the yeast Monascus purpureus have been commercialised as blood-cholesterol lowering agents. It acts by competitively inhibiting the enzyme responsible for synthesis of cholesterol.

Staphylococcus is a genus of Gram-positive bacteria that are commonly found on the skin, nose, and mucous membranes of humans and animals.

Cyclosporin A is a bioactive molecule that is widely used as an immunosuppressive agent in organ transplant patients. It plays a crucial role in preventing organ rejection by suppressing the immune system's response to the transplanted organ. This important medication is derived from the fungus Trichoderma polysporum.

Antibiotics are chemical substances, which are produced by some microbes and can kill or retard the growth of other (disease-causing) microbes. Penicillin was the first antibiotic produced by Penicillium notatum. Penicillin was discovered by Alexander Fleming in 1928.