The scientist who first successfully synthesized the gene for somatostatin (a hormone) in a bacterium, demonstrating the potential of recombinant DNA technology for producing human hormones, was: MCQ with Answer and Explanation

The scientist who first successfully synthesized the gene for somatostatin (a hormone) in a bacterium, demonstrating the potential of recombinant DNA technology for producing human hormones, was:
A. Herbert Boyer and Stanley Cohen
B. Paul Berg
C. Keiichi Itakura
D. Arthur Kornberg
Answer: Option C
Solution (By JKSSB Mock Tests)
In 1977, Keiichi Itakura and his colleagues at the City of Hope National Medical Center, in collaboration with Herbert Boyer's lab, successfully synthesized the gene for somatostatin (a hypothalamic hormone) and inserted it into E. coli. The bacteria then produced the somatostatin protein. This was a landmark achievement, as it was the first time a synthetic human gene was expressed in a bacterium to produce a functional human hormone, paving the way for the commercial production of insulin and other therapeutics.

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Practice More Biology Questions

Question #1
Which of the following is a direct evidence of evolution?
A. Comparative anatomy
B. Molecular biology
C. Fossils
D. Embryology

Correct Answer: Option C


Explanation:
Fossils provide direct, tangible evidence of past life forms and evolutionary changes over geological time. Comparative anatomy (homologous/analogous organs), embryology (similar early stages), and molecular biology (DNA/protein sequence similarities) provide indirect evidence. Fossils show transitional forms like Archaeopteryx (between reptiles and birds).

This question belongs to: Science Biology
Question #2
Consider statements about human immunity: 1. Skin acts as a physical barrier. 2. White blood cells fight infections. 3. Antibiotics are effective against viruses. Which are correct?
A. 2 and 3 only
B. 1, 2 and 3
C. 1 and 2 only
D. 1 and 3 only

Correct Answer: Option C


Explanation:
The skin and mucous membranes form the first line of defense (innate immunity), acting as physical barriers that prevent pathogens from entering the body. White blood cells (leukocytes), including phagocytes and lymphocytes, are the cellular components of the immune system that identify, attack, and destroy pathogens. Antibiotics are drugs designed to kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria; they are completely ineffective against viruses, which lack the cellular machinery targeted by antibiotics. Thus, statements 1 and 2 are correct.

This question belongs to: Science Biology
Question #3
The hormone that stimulates the release of growth hormone from the pituitary is:
A. Growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH)
B. Dopamine
C. Cortisol
D. Somatostatin

Correct Answer: Option A


Explanation:
GHRH, from the hypothalamus, stimulates the anterior pituitary to secrete growth hormone. Somatostatin inhibits GH release. Dopamine inhibits prolactin.

This question belongs to: Science Biology