Question

Production of human growth hormone in bacteria is possible because

• A. bacteria has genes similar to humans
• B. gene regulation is identical in humans and bacteria
• C. bacteria have rapid growth rate
• D. the genetic code is nearly universal

Answer 1

The correct option is D the genetic code is nearly universal

Genetic code may be defined as the sequence of nucleotides which determines the sequence of amino acids in a polypeptide chain. In the genetic code, each of the three nucleotides in a row are counted as a triplet and code for a single amino acid. The genetic code is nearly universal meaning there is almost no ambiguity regarding it. Each codon codes for the same amino acid in all organisms including bacteria, plants and animals with a very few exceptions. This universal nature makes it possible for the bacteria to synthesise human insulin.

Genes and their regulation is different in humans and bacteria. The bacteria have a rapid growth rate which enables mass production of recombinant proteins.