Question:

During the isolation of desired gene from the fungal cell which enzyme is not used?

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Cell wall digestion enzymes:
Bacteria = Lysozyme.
Fungi = Chitinase.
Plants = Cellulase and Pectinase.
Matching the enzyme to the cell wall chemistry helps solve these questions easily.
Updated On: Jul 22, 2026
  • Chitinase
  • RNase
  • Lysozyme
  • Protease
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question asks to identify which of the listed enzymes is not used when isolating genomic DNA (the desired gene) from a fungal cell.

Step 2: Key Concepts and Approach:
Isolating pure DNA from eukaryotic cells requires:
1. Lysis of the cell wall and membrane to release intracellular contents.
2. Enzymatic degradation of other macromolecules like proteins, RNA, and lipids to avoid contamination.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:

Chitinase: The fungal cell wall is composed of chitin.
Chitinase is required to hydrolyze chitin and break down the cell wall to release the genomic DNA. Thus, it is essential.

RNase (Ribonuclease): Contaminating RNA is removed by treating the lysate with RNase, which digests RNA into mononucleotides without affecting DNA. Thus, it is used.

Protease: Proteins (including histones associated with DNA) are digested using protease enzymes. Thus, it is used.

Lysozyme: Lysozyme specifically hydrolyzes peptidoglycan, which is the main component of bacterial cell walls.
Since fungal cell walls do not contain peptidoglycan, lysozyme has no substrate here and is not used.


Step 4: Final Answer:
Lysozyme is used for bacterial cells, not fungal cells. Therefore, it is the enzyme that is not used.
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