Daily Quiz

Solution (b)
Explanation:
• ‘Molecules that directly bind to mRNA to prevent its translation into proteins’ describes the function of microRNAs (miRNAs) or small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), not transcription factors. These molecules regulate gene expression by binding to mRNA and preventing its translation, but they act post-transcription. Therefore, this option is incorrect.
• Transcription factors are proteins that bind to specific sequences in the DNA, typically at promoter regions or enhancers, to regulate the transcription of genes into mRNA. They play a crucial role in controlling which genes are expressed in a cell. (Option (b) is correct)
• ‘Enzymes responsible for breaking down RNA after transcription’ refers to RNA-degrading enzymes such as ribonucleases (RNases). These enzymes degrade RNA molecules after transcription.
• DNA sequences do not get directly translated into proteins. DNA is transcribed into mRNA, which is then translated into proteins.

Source: https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/editorial/%E2%80%8Bregulation-role-the-hindu-editorial-on-the-2024-medicine-nobel/article68729432.ece

Solution (d)

Explanation:

• MF Lite Framework: Introduced by SEBI, this framework aims to simplify the mutual fund landscape by promoting passively managed mutual fund schemes. These schemes track market indexes and present less risk compared to actively managed funds.
• It aims to encourage new entrants into the mutual fund industry by offering less risky, passively managed schemes. This framework helps retail investors with simplified investment options and provides diversification without the complexities of active fund management. (Option (d) is correct)

Source: https://www.thehindu.com/business/markets/on-the-need-for-a-different-framework-for-passive-mfs/article68730094.ece#:~:text=The%20framework%20deems%20a%20minimum,assets%20on%20a%20perpetual%20basis.

Solution (c)

Explanation:

• Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are harmful substances produced when sugars react with proteins or fats, especially during high-temperature cooking processes like frying, grilling, or roasting. They are linked to inflammation and are considered a risk factor for diabetes and other chronic diseases. (Option (c) is correct)
• Common sources of AGEs include ultra-processed and fast foods, especially those that are fried or roasted.
• AGEs are linked to inflammation, oxidative stress, and have been implicated in the development of diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and other age-related chronic conditions. The high consumption of foods rich in AGEs is one of the reasons why India is among the countries with the highest prevalence of diabetes.

Source: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/health/consumption-of-ultra-processed-and-fast-foods-leading-cause-of-diabetes-in-india-reveals-new-study/article68729384.ece#:~:text=A%20diet%20rich%20in%20advanced,Food%20Sciences%20and%20Nutrition%2C%20recently.

Solution (b)

Explanation:

• A genetic bottleneck occurs when there is a significant reduction in the population size, which leads to a loss of genetic diversity. This reduction can be caused by natural disasters, human activities, or other environmental pressures. After the bottleneck event, the smaller population has less genetic variation, making it more vulnerable to diseases and environmental changes. (Statement 1 is correct)
• A genetic bottleneck is more pronounced in small populations, not large ones. When a large population is drastically reduced in size, the remaining smaller population may have a reduced gene pool, causing the genetic bottleneck. The smaller the population, the more significant the reduction in genetic diversity. (Statement 2 is incorrect)
• The founder effect is closely related to genetic bottlenecks. It occurs when a small group of individuals (a “founder population”) becomes isolated from a larger population. This small group may not represent the genetic diversity of the original population, leading to a loss of genetic variation, similar to what happens in a genetic bottleneck. (Statement 3 is correct)
• Genetic bottlenecks and founder effects can lead to the fixation of certain alleles and loss of others, increasing the risk of inbreeding and genetic diseases in populations.

Source: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/genome-editing-is-helping-us-understand-hereditary-cancers-better/article68727272.ece#:~:text=The%20result%20will%20potentially%20be,preventive%20treatment%20and%20lifestyle%20changes.

Solution (a)

Explanation:

• The Marburg virus is one of the deadliest pathogens, with fatality rates that have ranged from 24% to 88% in past outbreaks. It causes severe hemorrhagic fever, similar to the Ebola virus, and has the potential to cause devastating outbreaks due to its high mortality rate and ease of transmission via human-to-human contact. (Statement 1 is correct)
• The Marburg virus belongs to the filovirus family, which also includes the Ebola virus. Filoviruses are long, filamentous viruses that can cause severe hemorrhagic fevers in humans and non-human primates. They are among the most dangerous viruses known to humanity. (Statement 2 is correct)
• As of now, there is no approved vaccine for Marburg virus disease. However, there are experimental vaccines and treatments under development, and clinical trials are ongoing. The World Health Organization (WHO) and other global health organizations are working towards the development of vaccines, but no official approval has been granted yet. (Statement 3 is incorrect)

Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-health/what-is-marburg-virus-which-has-rocked-rwanda-9608879/