Question

Match the following microorganism with the product formed:

\[ \begin{array}{|c|c|} \hline \textbf{Microorganism} & \textbf{Product} \\ \hline A.\ \text{Monascus purpureus} & 1.\ \text{Cyclosporin A} \\ \hline B.\ \text{Trichoderma polysporum} & 2.\ \text{Statins} \\ \hline \end{array} \]

Choose the correct option:

• A. A−1, B-2
• B. A-2, B-1
• C. A-1, B-1
• D. A-2, B-2

Hint:

Memorize these classic examples of microbial products:
- Monascus purpureus \(\rightarrow\) Statins (cholesterol-lowering).
- Trichoderma polysporum \(\rightarrow\) Cyclosporin A (immunosuppressant).
- Penicillium notatum \(\rightarrow\) Penicillin (antibiotic).
- Saccharomyces cerevisiae (yeast) \(\rightarrow\) Ethanol (fermentation).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question asks to match specific microorganisms with the commercially important secondary metabolites they produce.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
A. Monascus purpureus: This is a yeast-like fungus. It is well-known for producing statins (specifically, lovastatin). Statins are a class of drugs used to lower cholesterol levels by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, an enzyme involved in cholesterol synthesis.
So, A \(\rightarrow\) 2. Statins.
B. Trichoderma polysporum: This is a fungus. It is a source of Cyclosporin A. Cyclosporin A is an immunosuppressive drug used to prevent organ rejection in transplant patients and to treat autoimmune diseases.
So, B \(\rightarrow\) 1. Cyclosporin A.
Combining the matches: A-2, B-1.

Step 4: Final Answer:
The correct matching option is A-2, B-1.