Context: Researchers are using recombinant DNA technology to produce lab-engineered, synthetic antivenoms that are free from animal-derived proteins and offer greater safety and efficacy.
Relevance of the Topic: Prelims: R-DNA Technology: What, Applications and Challenges.
Major Highlights:
- Recently, researchers from Denmark, the U.K., and the U.S., led by 2024 Nobel laureate David Baker, reported designing synthetic antivenoms successfully using Artificial Intelligence (AI).
- Significance:
- Greater effectiveness, availability, and the potential to replace century-old methods to produce antivenoms.
- Computer-designed proteins can optimise antibodies for different clinical settings. E.g., Region-specific antivenoms. By mapping the toxins’ compositions, scientists are attempting to create tailored antivenoms for more precise treatments.
What is Recombinant DNA technology?
- Recombinant DNA technology comprises altering genetic material outside an organism to obtain enhanced and desired characteristics in living organisms or as their products.
- Basic Principle: Isolation of a specific/desirable gene from one organism, and then inserting it into the genome of another organism, via an appropriate vector.
Steps involved
- Isolation of the desired gene (DNA sequence) from the source organism. (Fragmenting the DNA using Restriction Endonuclease Enzyme)
- Inserting the desired gene into a vector (plasmid, virus, cosmid etc.) to develop a recombinant DNA. (It is done using enzyme DNA ligase)
- Inserting the recombinant DNA (via vector) into the target organism. The vector is integrated into the host’s genome and the desired gene is expressed.
Applications of R-DNA Technology
- Development of Genetically-Modified crops (having traits like pest-resistance, herbicide-resistant, drought resistance etc.)
- Production of therapeutic proteins. E.g., Insulin, growth hormone, Interferon, clotting factors for treating Haemophilia.
- Human Insulin was the first therapeutic protein to be genetically cloned in E.coli using R-DNA technology.
- Production of vaccines, monoclonal antibodies. E.g., Hepatitis-B vaccine
- Backbone of diagnostic tests for diseases like HIV and Hepatitis.
- Development of genetically-engineered microorganisms for beneficial uses. E.g., for bioremediation.
Issues related to R-DNA Technology
- Risk of horizontal gene transfer from GMOs to other organisms. This can cause spread of unwanted traits like antibiotic resistance, herbicide-tolerant superweeds.
- Accidental release of GMOs from laboratories can cause future pandemics.
- Allows germline editing which could have unintended consequences to future generations.