______ produced by bacterium Streptococcus and modified by genetic eng...
Streptokinase (Tissue Plasminogen Activator or TPA) is an enzyme obtained from the cultures of some haemolytic bacterium Streptococcus and modified genetically to function as clot buster. It has fibrinolytic effect. Therefore, it helps in clearing blood clots inside the blood vessels in patients who have undergone myocardial infarction leading to heart attack, through dissolution of intravascular fibrin.
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______ produced by bacterium Streptococcus and modified by genetic eng...
Explanation:
Introduction:
In this question, we are asked to identify the substance produced by the bacterium Streptococcus and modified by genetic engineering that is used as a clot buster for removing clots from the blood vessels of patients who have undergone a myocardial infarction (heart attack).
Options:
a) Lipase
b) Streptokinase
c) Cyclosporin A
d) Antibiotic streptomycin
Correct answer: Option 'b' - Streptokinase
Explanation:
Streptokinase is a substance produced by the bacterium Streptococcus and is used as a clot buster. It is an enzyme that breaks down blood clots by converting plasminogen (an inactive precursor) into plasmin (an active enzyme). Plasmin further degrades fibrin, the protein network that forms blood clots, thereby dissolving the clots and restoring blood flow.
Role of Streptokinase:
1. Production: Streptokinase is naturally produced by certain strains of Streptococcus bacteria. It is a bacterial protein that acts as a virulence factor by facilitating the spread of bacteria through the host's tissues.
2. Clot dissolution: Streptokinase binds to plasminogen, leading to the formation of an active complex called plasminogen-streptokinase complex. This complex converts additional plasminogen molecules into plasmin, which is a potent enzyme responsible for clot dissolution.
3. Fibrinolysis: Plasmin degrades fibrin, the fibrous protein that forms the structural framework of blood clots. By breaking down fibrin, plasmin effectively dissolves the clot and restores blood flow through the affected blood vessel.
4. Therapeutic use: Streptokinase has been extensively used as a thrombolytic agent in the treatment of myocardial infarction (heart attack), pulmonary embolism, deep vein thrombosis, and arterial occlusion. It is administered intravenously and is effective in rapidly dissolving blood clots, thereby preventing further damage to the affected tissues.
Conclusion:
Streptokinase, produced by the bacterium Streptococcus and modified by genetic engineering, is used as a clot buster for removing clots from the blood vessels of patients who have undergone a myocardial infarction (heart attack). It acts by converting plasminogen into plasmin, which degrades fibrin and dissolves blood clots.
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