**Core Concept:** Molybdenum is an essential trace element that plays a critical role in several biological processes, particularly as a cofactor for enzymes involved in various physiological functions. One such enzyme that contains molybdenum is xanthine oxidase.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right:** Molybdenum is a vital part of xanthine oxidase, an enzyme found in the human body. Xanthine oxidase is responsible for the oxidation of hypoxanthine to xanthine and xanthine to uric acid, which is a crucial step in purine nucleotide catabolism. This process contributes to maintaining the body's purine homeostasis and preventing the accumulation of potentially toxic substances.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**
A. Xanthine dehydrogenase is another enzyme involved in purine nucleotide catabolism but does not contain molybdenum as a cofactor.
B. Alkaline phosphatase is an enzyme that hydrolyzes phosphate esters but does not involve molybdenum.
C. Cytochrome P450 is a group of enzymes involved in drug and xenobiotic biotransformation, but it does not contain molybdenum.
D. Glutamate decarboxylase is an enzyme involved in the synthesis of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) but does not contain molybdenum.
**Clinical Pearl:** Molybdenum-containing enzymes play a vital role in maintaining essential physiological processes, including purine nucleotide catabolism and drug biotransformation. Understanding the role of molybdenum in enzymes like xanthine oxidase and sulfite oxidase is crucial for appreciating the importance of this essential trace element in human health.
Free Medical MCQs Β· NEET PG Β· USMLE Β· AIIMS
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