UPSC Prelims 2025 · Question 8 of 100

UPSC Prelims 2025 question on Monoclonal Antibodies

With reference to monoclonal antibodies, often mentioned in news, consider the following statements:

I. They are man-made proteins.

II. They stimulate immunological function due to their ability to bind to specific antigens.

III. They are used in treating viral infections like that of Nipah virus.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

  1. I and II only
  2. II and III only
  3. I and III only
  4. I, II and III
Show answer

Answer: D. I, II and III

Verdict

All three statements are correct → Option (d).

Statement by statement

Statement I – CORRECT: Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are laboratory-engineered proteins that mimic the immune system's natural ability to fight harmful pathogens. They are man-made proteins.

Statement II – CORRECT: Produced from a single clone of B-cells, they are designed to bind to specific antigens such as those found on viruses, bacteria, or cancer cells. This targeted action allows them to neutralize threats, mark infected or malignant cells for destruction, or block harmful biological processes.

Statement III – CORRECT: mAbs are widely used in treating cancers, autoimmune disorders, and viral infections like COVID-19, Ebola, and Nipah. In India, the monoclonal antibody from Australia has been used on some individuals around the world for Nipah and its use was found to be safe.

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