Biology Regents Practice Exam

What is a significant advantage of using bacteria to manufacture hormones like human growth hormone?

1. Scientists can manipulate bacteria easily.

2. Bacteria are relatively inexpensive and reproduce quickly.

3. Patients can utilize more advanced medications.

4. Hormones produced cause fewer immune reactions.

The correct answer is: Bacteria are relatively inexpensive and reproduce quickly.

Using bacteria to manufacture hormones like human growth hormone is advantageous primarily because bacteria are relatively inexpensive and reproduce quickly. This rapid reproduction allows for large quantities of the desired hormone to be produced in a short period. Additionally, the cost-effectiveness of bacterial cultures significantly reduces production costs compared to other methods, such as extracting hormones from animal sources or using more complex eukaryotic cell systems. The efficiency of bacterial systems enables scientists to produce hormones at a scale that meets medical demand while maintaining a budget-friendly approach. This makes it feasible to provide essential treatments like human growth hormone therapy to many patients who need it. While manipulating bacteria easily is a beneficial aspect of genetic engineering, the primary advantage in this context is the cost and rapid benefits of large-scale production. The other options, like advanced medications or fewer immune reactions, do not directly relate to the manufacturing process's benefits regarding cost and efficiency.