Which of the following enzyme is used during isolation of DNA from fungal cells?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 4
The correct answer is Option (4) → Chitinase
Option (4) Chitinase — Correct. To release DNA, the cell wall must be broken with the right enzyme. Fungal cell walls contain chitin, so chitinase is used for fungal cells (lysozyme for bacteria, cellulase for plants).
Note: A similar question was also asked in CUET (UG) 2023 on 15-06-2023 (Slot 1).
NCERT Extract:
Isolation of the Genetic Material (DNA) – “… Recall that nucleic acid is the genetic material of all organisms without exception. In majority of organisms this is deoxyribonucleic acid or DNA. In order to cut the DNA with restriction enzymes, it needs to be in pure form, free from other macro-molecules. Since the DNA is enclosed within the membranes, we have to break the cell open to release DNA along with other macromolecules such as RNA, proteins, polysaccharides and also lipids. This can be achieved by treating the bacterial cells/plant or animal tissue with enzymes such as lysozyme (bacteria), cellulase (plant cells), chitinase (fungus).”