Genetic engineering allows scientists to produce human insulin by altering which type of bacteria?

• A. Pseudomonas aeruginosa
• B. Bacillus subtilis
• C. Escherichia coli
• D. Staphylococcus aureus

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of genetic engineering: Genetic engineering involves modifying the genetic material of an organism to achieve desired traits or produce specific substances, such as human insulin.
2. Identify the role of bacteria in genetic engineering: Bacteria are often used as hosts to produce proteins like insulin because they can be easily manipulated and cultured in large quantities.
3. Recognize the significance of Escherichia coli: Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a common bacterium used in genetic engineering due to its well-understood genetics and ability to express foreign genes efficiently.
4. Consider the process of producing human insulin: Scientists insert the human insulin gene into the plasmid DNA of E. coli, allowing the bacteria to produce insulin as they grow and divide.
5. Evaluate why other bacteria are less commonly used: While other bacteria like Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus subtilis, and Staphylococcus aureus have their own applications, E. coli is preferred for insulin production due to its rapid growth and ease of genetic manipulation.