Microbes like Saccharomyces cerevisiae are utilized in the commercial production of ethanol. Enzyme production is another application of microbes, with lipases being used in detergent formulations to effectively remove oily stains from laundry. It is common to observe that commercially bottled fruit juices appear clearer compared to homemade ones, as the former undergo clarification processes employing pectinases and proteases. Streptokinase, produced by the bacterium Streptococcus and genetically modified, serves as a "clot buster" in the removal of blood clots from the vessels of individuals who have experienced a heart attack. Cyclosporin A, another bioactive molecule, is derived from the fungus Trichoderma polysporum and is employed as an immunosuppressive agent in organ transplant patients. Statins, on the other hand, are produced by the yeast Monascus purpureus and have been commercialized as agents to lower blood cholesterol levels. They function by competitively inhibiting the enzyme responsible for cholesterol synthesis. Biofertilizers are organisms that enhance the nutrient quality of the soil and can be derived from bacteria, fungi, and cyanobacteria. Rhizobium bacteria form nodules on the roots of leguminous plants and convert atmospheric nitrogen into organic forms, which serve as nutrients for the plants. Additionally, certain free-living bacteria like Azospirillum and Azotobacter can fix atmospheric nitrogen in the soil, thereby enriching its nitrogen content .Fungi also engage in symbiotic associations with plants, known as mycorrhiza. Many members of the Glomus genus form mycorrhiza, wherein the fungal symbiont absorbs phosphorus from the soil and transfers it to the plant. These associations offer various benefits to the plants, including enhanced resistance to root-borne pathogens, increased tolerance to salinity and drought, and an overall improvement in plant growth and development.

What is the mode of action of statins produced by Monascus purpureus?

They competitively inhibit the enzyme responsible for the synthesis of cholesterol.

The bacterium Streptococcus produces streptokinase, which has been genetically engineered and is utilized as a "clot buster" to eliminate blood clots in patients who have suffered a heart attack. Cyclosporin A, another bioactive compound, is derived from the fungus Trichoderma polysporum and serves as an immunosuppressive agent in individuals who have undergone organ transplants.

Statins, produced by the yeast Monascus purpureus, have been commercialized as agents for lowering blood cholesterol levels. They work by competitively inhibiting the enzyme responsible for cholesterol synthesis.