137. The first U.S patent for a GM organism was awarded to Dr. A. M. Chakrabarty for his work on
one of the following:
(a) E. coli engineered to produce insulin,
(b) Pseudomonas engineered to degrade petroleum,
(c) Pseudomonas engineered to produce petrol ,
(d) Yeast engineered to produce Hepatitis B vaccine

Dr. A. M. Chakrabarty and the First U.S. Patent for a Genetically Modified Organism

In 1980, Dr. A. M. Chakrabarty made history by becoming the first individual to be awarded a U.S. patent for a genetically modified organism (GMO). This groundbreaking achievement marked a significant milestone in biotechnology and opened the doors for a multitude of genetically engineered organisms in medicine, agriculture, and environmental science.

Dr. Chakrabarty’s patented work involved the genetic modification of Pseudomonas, a genus of bacteria, to enhance its ability to degrade petroleum. This engineered microorganism was designed to help address environmental challenges, specifically oil spills. The ability of genetically modified organisms to tackle such issues demonstrated the vast potential of biotechnology in solving real-world problems.

The Creation of Pseudomonas Engineered to Degrade Petroleum

Dr. Chakrabarty’s innovation involved modifying Pseudomonas bacteria so that it could metabolize hydrocarbons, specifically those found in petroleum. This modification gave the bacteria the ability to break down oil and other toxic substances in the environment, making it a valuable tool for cleaning up oil spills and other environmental pollutants.

By creating a genetically engineered bacterium capable of bioremediation, Dr. Chakrabarty showed how biotechnology could be applied to environmental conservation. The potential applications of his work were vast, and it marked a pivotal moment in the use of genetic engineering for solving ecological challenges.

Why Was This Patented Work So Revolutionary?

The patent awarded to Dr. Chakrabarty represented not just an academic achievement but also a legal and ethical landmark. The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) recognized genetically modified organisms as eligible for patents, which previously had been debated due to concerns over the ownership of life forms. The landmark decision paved the way for future biotechnological innovations, such as genetically modified crops and therapeutic organisms.

Moreover, this milestone showed that genetic engineering wasn’t limited to theoretical research but could be actively applied to create practical, life-saving solutions. It was a major moment for the biotech industry and set a precedent for future patenting of genetically modified organisms.

Correct Answer:

(b) Pseudomonas engineered to degrade petroleum

Conclusion

Dr. A. M. Chakrabarty’s work on genetically modifying Pseudomonas to degrade petroleum remains one of the most influential achievements in the field of biotechnology. His groundbreaking research not only advanced the science of genetic engineering but also demonstrated how GMOs could be harnessed for environmental remediation, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of biotechnological patents and environmental conservation.