​The product of nahG gene of Pseudomonas putida catalyzes the metabolism of salicylic acid to which one of the following compounds?​

Correct option is C

Explanation-

Pseudomonas putida is a bacterium known for its ability to degrade aromatic hydrocarbons, making it useful in bioremediation.

The nahG gene is part of the naphthalene degradation (nah) operon found in Pseudomonas putida. This operon allows the bacterium to utilize aromatic compounds as carbon and energy sources.
Product of nahG: Salicylate Hydroxylase
Enzyme class: Oxidoreductase
Function: Converts salicylic acid to catechol.
Reaction:

$$\text{Salicylic Acid} + NADH + O_2 \rightarrow \text{Catechol} + NAD^+ + H_2O + CO_2$$​​

Metabolic Pathway:
Naphthalene → salicylate (via intermediate steps).
Salicylate is converted to catechol by salicylate hydroxylase (product of nahG).
Catechol then enters the ortho- or meta-cleavage pathways to be further degraded into intermediates of the TCA cycle (e.g., acetyl-CoA, succinate).
Significance of Catechol:
Catechol is a central intermediate in the breakdown of many aromatic compounds. It's a di-hydroxybenzene that is further metabolized by catechol dioxygenases.

So, the correct answer is option c  - Catechol