Question:

Statins produced by yeast have been commercialized as blood cholesterol lowering agents. The producing organism is:

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Statins from Monascus purpureus are natural cholesterol-lowering drugs.
Updated On: Jun 19, 2026
  • Saccharomyces cerevisiae
  • Monascus purpureus
  • Candida utilis
  • Trichoderma
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understand statins.
Statins are secondary metabolites used to lower blood cholesterol levels by inhibiting cholesterol biosynthesis.

Step 2: Identify producing organism.

Monascus purpureus is a yeast-like fungus used in fermentation and statin production.

Step 3: Medical significance.

Statins are widely used in treating cardiovascular diseases by reducing LDL cholesterol.

Step 4: Analyze incorrect options.

Saccharomyces cerevisiae is used in baking and alcohol fermentation, Candida utilis is used in SCP production, and Trichoderma is a biocontrol fungus.

Step 5: Industrial application.

Monascus purpureus is industrially exploited for natural statin production.

Step 6: Conclusion.

Thus, the correct answer is Monascus purpureus.
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