Question

Which of the following groups can be de-alkylated by microorganisms?

(a) N-linked alkylated groups

(b) C-linked alkylated groups

(c) F-linked alkylated groups

(d) G-linked alkylated groups

This question was addressed to me by my school principal while I was bunking the class.

My doubt stems from Microbial Transformations of Pesticides topic in section Microbial Transformations of Pesticides of Environmental Biotechnology

Answer 1

The correct answer is (a) N-linked alkylated groups

The explanation is: N-linked alkylated groups and O-linked alkylated groups can be easily de-alkylated by microorganisms, also something that is bonded to the carbon frame are often more resistant to the breakdown. Also, alkyl groups of all the known pesticides are usually attached to the nitrogen atom and oxygen atom. So, C-linked alkylated groups cannot be de-alkylated by microorganisms. F-linked alkylated groups and G-linked alkylated groups doesn’t take part in the process.