Question

Which of the following secondary metabolites belong to the group drugs?
I. Morphine
II. Curcumin
III. Codeine
IV. Vinblastine
V. Abrin

A.I and II
B.I and V
C.II and III
D.II and IV
E.III and IV

Answer 1

Secondary metabolites are natural or organic compounds which are a product of metabolism and are not directly involved in the growth and development of an organism.

Complete answer:
1.Morphine is a plant alkaloid which is used to relieve severe pain. It is an opioid analgesic and acts on the CNS. It is a secondary metabolite which acts as a drug.
2.Curcumin is a primary bioactive compound obtained from a spice turmeric Curcumin longa. It has anti-inflammatory properties and helps the body in fighting infection. But, it is not a secondary metabolite.
3.Codeine is similar to Morphine and is a natural opiate. It is also an alkaloid which is a secondary metabolite. It is used to treat mild and moderate pain, cough and diarrhea.
4.Vinblastine is also a natural alkaloid which is extracted from the plant Vinca rosea Linn. It is a drug which is used to treat cancer. It works by stopping the growth of cancerous cells.
5.Abrin is a natural plant toxin found in seeds of plant rosary pea.

Hence, the correct answer is option (E)

Note: Secondary metabolites are natural products formed in plants. They play a role in plant’s defense mechanism, signalling, ecological interactions and other adaptive functions. These metabolites are extracted and utilized by humans for improving their health by using them as antibiotics, drugs and as growth promoters. Examples include Alkaloids, steroids, etc.