Question:

The organic molecule that protects body proteins from damaging effect of urea is:

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TMAO balances urea toxicity in marine fishes.
Updated On: Jun 20, 2026
  • Trimethylamine oxide
  • Ammonia
  • Uric acid
  • Ornithine
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding urea toxicity.
High urea concentration can destabilize proteins by affecting hydrogen bonding.

Step 2: Need for protective osmolytes.

Marine organisms maintain compatible solutes that counteract urea effects.

Step 3: Role of TMAO.

Trimethylamine oxide (TMAO) stabilizes proteins and counteracts urea toxicity.

Step 4: Evaluating options.

Only TMAO acts as a counteracting osmolyte.

Step 5: Biological reasoning.

Cartilaginous fishes maintain urea + TMAO balance.

Step 6: Final conclusion.

Thus, TMAO is correct answer.
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