**Question:** Which one of the following enzymes is obtained from Thermophillus aquaticus bacterium which is heat stable and used in PCR at high temperature:
A. DNA polymerase
B. Taq polymerase
C. Amylase
D. Protease
**Core Concept:**
The question is asking about a heat-stable enzyme extracted from the Thermophillus aquaticus bacterium that is crucial for the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) process. PCR is a laboratory technique used to amplify specific DNA sequences, allowing for the rapid detection of minute amounts of genetic material.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right:**
Taq polymerase (B) is the enzyme of interest in this question. Thermophillus aquaticus is a bacterium that thrives in high-temperature environments, making it an ideal source for a heat-stable enzyme. Taq polymerase is specifically obtained from this bacterium and is particularly useful in PCR due to its resistance to high temperatures, allowing for efficient amplification of DNA templates.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**
A) DNA polymerase (option A) is a general term for enzymes involved in DNA replication, but the specific enzyme used in PCR is Taq polymerase (option B).
C) Amylase (option C) is an enzyme involved in digesting starch into glucose, unrelated to PCR or high-temperature stability.
D) Protease (option D) is an enzyme responsible for breaking down proteins, not relevant to PCR or heat stability.
**Clinical Pearl:**
The use of heat-stable enzymes like Taq polymerase (option B) is essential in PCR for successful amplification of DNA templates at elevated temperatures, preventing denaturation of the enzyme and enabling accurate detection of genetic material in various clinical applications, including genetic testing, genetic engineering, and forensic science.
Free Medical MCQs Β· NEET PG Β· USMLE Β· AIIMS
Access thousands of free MCQs, ebooks and daily exams.
By signing in you agree to our Privacy Policy.