Daily Current Affairs : 30-September-2023
In recent news, India has made a significant move by reaching out to Australia to procure monoclonal antibody doses to combat the Nipah virus outbreak in Kerala. This groundbreaking development marks a vital step in the fight against deadly diseases, shedding light on the potential of monoclonal antibodies as a therapeutic solution.
Understanding Monoclonal Antibodies
Monoclonal antibodies, often referred to as lab-made proteins, replicate the actions of natural antibodies produced by the immune system. Their primary function is to attach themselves to antigens, which are foreign substances, aiding the immune system in eliminating harmful molecules from the body. These antibodies are meticulously designed to target specific antigens, a concept that earned scientists Niels K. Jerne, Georges J.F. Köhler, and César Milstein the Nobel Prize in Medicine in 1984.
The Significance of m102.4
Among the arsenal of monoclonal antibodies, m102.4 stands out as a potent, fully human monoclonal antibody capable of neutralizing Hendra and Nipah viruses. Both these viruses, originating from bats, fall under the Paramyxoviridae family and are listed as priority diseases by the World Health Organization. The drug is currently utilized under ‘compassionate use,’ a measure applied when no other authorized treatment is viable, emphasizing its critical role in combating these deadly infections.
Mechanism of Action
Monoclonal antibodies operate through a precise mechanism. Engineered to target specific diseases, they attach themselves to disease-causing antigens, commonly proteins. For example, during the pandemic, monoclonal antibodies were tailored to bind with the spike protein of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, hindering its ability to infect other cells. In the case of the Nipah virus, m102.4 binds itself to the immunodominant receptor-binding glycoprotein, a crucial component of the virus. This binding potential offers a ray of hope, as it could neutralize the Nipah virus, preventing its harmful effects on the human body.
India’s Initiative and Its Impact
India’s proactive step to procure monoclonal antibody doses from Australia showcases the nation’s commitment to public health. By embracing innovative therapies like m102.4, India is not only combating the current Nipah virus outbreak but also preparing for future health challenges. This initiative is a testament to global collaboration in the face of health crises, emphasizing the importance of sharing knowledge and resources to safeguard humanity.
Important Points:
- India reached out to Australia for monoclonal antibody doses to combat the Nipah virus outbreak in Kerala, showcasing proactive measures in public health.
- Monoclonal antibodies are laboratory-made proteins that mimic natural antibodies, targeting specific antigens and aiding the immune system in eliminating harmful substances from the body.
- Scientists Niels K. Jerne, Georges J.F. Köhler, and César Milstein were awarded the Nobel Prize in Medicine in 1984 for their work on monoclonal antibodies’ production principle.
- m102.4 is a fully human monoclonal antibody capable of neutralizing Hendra and Nipah viruses, listed as priority diseases by the World Health Organization.
- Monoclonal antibodies, like m102.4, bind to disease-causing antigens, hindering their functions, preventing infections, and offering potential therapeutic solutions.
- m102.4 specifically binds to the immunodominant receptor-binding glycoprotein of the Nipah virus, potentially neutralizing it and preventing its harmful effects on the human body.
- Monoclonal antibodies operate under ‘compassionate use,’ allowing their use in cases where no other authorized treatment is viable, emphasizing their critical role in combating deadly infections.
- India’s initiative to procure monoclonal antibody doses signifies the nation’s commitment to global health, showcasing the importance of international collaboration and resource sharing.
- The partnership between India and Australia exemplifies the significance of unity, research, and innovation in addressing global health threats and preparing for future challenges.
Why In News
Recently, India reached out to Australia to procure monoclonal antibody doses to combat the Nipah virus outbreak in Kerala, highlighting the importance of international collaboration in addressing global health crises and ensuring the well-being of communities worldwide.
MCQs about Monoclonal Antibodies Transform Nipah Virus Battle
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What is the primary function of monoclonal antibodies in the human body?
A. To mimic the behavior of natural antibodies
B. To neutralize bacteria
C. To aid digestion
D. To regulate blood sugar levels
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Why was m102.4 specifically engineered and used in the fight against the Nipah virus?
A. To target specific antigens of the Nipah virus
B. To cure various diseases
C. To prevent common cold
D. To study viruses
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What does ‘compassionate use’ refer to in the context of monoclonal antibodies?
A. Using monoclonal antibodies for research purposes
B. Allowing the use of an unauthorised medicine under strict conditions when no other alternative treatment is viable
C. Donating monoclonal antibodies to other countries
D. Discarding unused monoclonal antibodies
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What did the scientists Niels K. Jerne, Georges J.F. Köhler, and César Milstein receive the Nobel Prize in Medicine for in 1984?
A. Development of vaccines for various diseases
B. Invention of monoclonal antibodies
C. Discovery of antibiotics
D. Pioneering research in genetic engineering
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