Question

By the use of biotechnology, in which of the following the production of B${}_2$ vitamins has been increased to about 20,000 times?

• A. Ashbya gossypii
• B. E. coli
• C. Pseudomonas denitrificans
• D. Propionibacterium shermanii

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

Ashbya gossypii

Riboflavin (vitamin B${}_2$) is an essential nutrient for humans and animals. It must be obtained from the diet. Ashbya gossypii is a filamentous fungus which is successfully used in the production of B${}_2$ vitamins. The highest microbial yields of riboflavin till date reported have been obtained from Ashbya gossypii. By the use of biotechnology, Ashbya gossypii gives about 20,000 times increased B${}_2$ vitamins in low cost nutrient media. It is also used in an assay procedure for estimating the vitamin biotin.

Thus, the correct answer is option A.