Question:

Which of the following features of genetic code does allow bacteria to produce human insulin by recombinant DNA technology?

Updated On: Apr 25, 2026
  • Genetic code is not ambiguous
  • Genetic code is redundant
  • Genetic code is nearly universal
  • Genetic code is specific
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

The question asks us to identify the feature of the genetic code that allows bacteria to produce human insulin through recombinant DNA technology. The correct answer to this question is "Genetic code is nearly universal." Let's break down why this is the correct answer:

  1. Understanding the Genetic Code:

    The genetic code consists of nucleotide triplets called codons, each of which specifies a particular amino acid. This code is critical for translating genetic information from nucleic acid sequences into proteins.

  2. Universality of the Genetic Code:

    The term "nearly universal" means that the genetic code is the same across almost all organisms, from bacteria to humans. This universality allows genes from one organism to be expressed in another. For example, human insulin genes can be inserted into bacteria, and due to the nearly universal nature of the genetic code, bacteria can produce human insulin.

  3. Applying this to Recombinant DNA Technology:

    In recombinant DNA technology, a gene from one organism (like human insulin) can be cloned into a vector that is subsequently introduced into a bacterial cell. Because of the 'nearly universal' nature of the genetic code, the bacteria can read the human insulin gene and produce the insulin protein just as human cells would.

  4. Ruling Out Other Options:
    • Genetic code is not ambiguous: This feature means that each codon codes for only one amino acid and is not relevant to expressing genes across different species.
    • Genetic code is redundant: It refers to the fact that different codons can specify the same amino acid, which is unrelated to cross-species expression.
    • Genetic code is specific: This is similar to 'non-ambiguous,' meaning each codon specifies a specific amino acid, not pertinent to the cross-species genetic expression context.
  5. Conclusion:

    The nearly universal nature of the genetic code is what facilitates the expression of human genes in bacteria using recombinant DNA technology. Therefore, "Genetic code is nearly universal" is the correct answer.

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