Question

Which one of the right sequence of the intermediates in the biosynthesis of opium alkaloids?
A. Tyrosine 
B. Reticuline 
C. Codeine 
D. Morphine 
E. Thebaine 
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. A, B, C, D, E
• B. A, B, E, C, D
• C. A, B, E, D, C
• D. A, B, D, E, C

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

To determine the correct sequence of intermediates in the biosynthesis of opium alkaloids, we must understand the biosynthetic pathway. Here's how the pathway unfolds:

1. Tyrosine (A): This is the starting point in the biosynthesis of opium alkaloids. Tyrosine, an amino acid, is first converted into norcoclaurine through enzymatic reactions.
2. Reticuline (B): Following norcoclaurine, various modifications lead to the formation of reticuline, an important intermediate.
3. Morphine (D): Through a series of steps involving methylations, dehydrogenations, and other transformations, reticuline is converted into morphine.
4. Thebaine (E): Morphine can be further converted into thebaine. Thebaine is another alkaloid which serves as a precursor for other opium alkaloids and is more potent structurally compared to morphine.
5. Codeine (C): Finally, codeine, which is an alkaloid derived from morphine, is synthesized. It is less potent than morphine but is a crucial opium alkaloid.

Thus, based on the biosynthetic sequence described, the correct order is A, B, D, E, C. Therefore, the correct answer is the option: A, B, D, E, C.