With reference to the use of nano-technology in health sector, which of the following statements is/are correct? 1. Targeted drug delivery is made possible by nanotechnology. 2. Nanotechnology can largely contribute to gene therapy. Select the correct answer using the code given below.
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 only
- (c) Both 1 and 2 ✓ UPSC's answer
- (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Why the answer is (c)
• Nanoparticles can be engineered to carry drugs directly to diseased cells (e.g. tumours) and release them there, reducing dose and side effects — targeted drug delivery (statement 1).
• Nanocarriers such as lipid nanoparticles and dendrimers deliver genes and RNA into cells, a key enabler of gene therapy and mRNA vaccines (statement 2).
• Hence both 1 and 2, option (c).
Why the other options are wrong
- (a) 1 only
- Statement 2 is also correct: nanocarriers enable gene therapy.
- (b) 2 only
- Statement 1 is also correct: targeted delivery is a key use.
- (d) Neither 1 nor 2
- Both statements are correct.
Asked in the GS Paper I of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2015, held on 23 August 2015. Question and answer key: Union Public Service Commission. Explanation: UPSC Answer Check.