Question

The enzyme diastase was identified by
A. S.A Waksman
B. A. Fleming
C. Christian Hasen
D. Payen and Persoz

Answer 1

A diastase is a group of enzymes that catalyzes the breakdown of starch and produces maltose from it. It was the first enzyme that was discovered by scientists in 1833.

Complete answer: The enzyme diastase was discovered at a French sugar factory.
The enzyme was first discovered by Jean-Francois Persoz and Anselme Payen.
Diastase helps to break carbohydrates into a simple sugar that is easier to digest.
Diastase is known as α-, β-, or γ-amylase nowadays that help in the break of carbohydrates.

Additional information: The word diastase came from a Greek word which means separation. It is used in many clinical diagnoses.
For example, Urine diastase is used in diagnosing uncertain abdominal conditions like pancreatitis, stones in the common bile duct – known as choledocholithiasis, jaundice, and also helps in ruling out post-operative injury to the pancreas.
It is an established fact that the diastase level is correlated with the clinical features of the patient.

So, the correct answer is option is D. Payen and Persoz.

Note: Diastase is also used as a conjugant in periodic acid–Schiff base staining in histology. For example, glycogen is darkly stained by PAS and it can be dissolved by diastase. On the other hand, fungi stain darkly with PAS though it is treated with diastase.