Syllabus: Bio-technology
What Are Precision Biotherapeutics?
- Precision biotherapeutics are medical interventions tailored to a patient’s unique genetic, molecular, or cellular profile.
- They rely on genomic and proteomic analysis to decode mutations and disease-causing pathways.
- Gene-editing therapies like CRISPR modify faulty genes to correct underlying disorders.
- mRNA and nucleic-acid therapeutics instruct cells to produce or suppress specific proteins.
- Monoclonal antibodies and biologics target specific proteins, cancer cells, or pathogens.
- AI-driven drug discovery uses big data and machine learning to predict molecular interactions and optimise therapy design.
Why India Needs Precision Biotherapeutics
- India faces a high burden of non-communicable diseases, responsible for nearly 65% of all deaths.
- India’s genetic diversity creates variable responses to globally developed drugs, making personalised therapies essential.
- National genomic initiatives like IndiGen and GenomeIndia can enable treatments tailored to Indian genetic profiles.
- Precision biotherapeutics can shift care from reactive treatment to predictive, preventive and personalised care.
India’s Current Position
- The Department of Biotechnology identifies precision biotherapeutics as a priority under the Biotechnology for Economy, Environment, and Employment policy.
- Key research institutions include IGIB, NIBMG, and THSTI, which are mapping genetic diversity and disease susceptibility.
- Private-sector innovators include Biocon Biologics, Dr. Reddy’s, Immuneel Therapeutics, Bugworks, Akrivia Biosciences, miBiome Therapeutics, 4baseCare, and ImmunoACT (India’s first CAR-T therapy developer).
- Challenges: unclear regulatory frameworks, limited biologics manufacturing, and high cost restricting access to wealthy urban populations.
Global Market & India’s Opportunities
- The global precision medicine market is projected to exceed $22 billion by 2027.
- India’s large talent pool, strong data analytics capacity, and cost advantages position it as a future hub for affordable precision therapies.
Concerns
- Ethical issues around genetic data privacy, misuse, and consent remain unresolved and require urgent regulatory safeguards.
Q- “Precision biotherapeutics can transform India’s healthcare from reactive to preventive care.” Explain. (10 Marks)