UPSC Prelims 2021 GS Paper I · Q73 of 98 General Science easy

The term 'ACE2' is talked about in the context of

  1. (a) genes introduced in the genetically modified plants
  2. (b) development of India’s own satellite navigation system
  3. (c) radio collars for wildlife tracking
  4. (d) spread of viral diseases ✓ UPSC's answer

Why the answer is (d)

• ACE2 (angiotensin-converting enzyme 2) is a receptor protein on the surface of cells in the lungs, heart, kidneys and gut.

• SARS-CoV-2, the COVID-19 virus, uses its spike protein to bind ACE2 and enter cells, so ACE2 became central to explaining the spread and severity of the disease — option (d).

• ACE2 normally regulates blood pressure by breaking down angiotensin II.

• It is unrelated to GM plant genes (a), NavIC (b) or radio collars (c).

• Hence option (d).

Why the other options are wrong

(a) genes introduced in the genetically modified plants
ACE2 is a human receptor, not a GM plant gene.
(b) development of India’s own satellite navigation system
ACE2 has nothing to do with satellite navigation.
(c) radio collars for wildlife tracking
ACE2 is unrelated to wildlife tracking.

Asked in the GS Paper I of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2021, held on 10 October 2021. Question and answer key: Union Public Service Commission. Explanation: UPSC Answer Check.

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