With reference to monoclonal antibodies, consider the following statements:

Q. With reference to monoclonal antibodies, consider the following statements:

UPSC Civil Services Examination (Prelims) 2025 – General Studies Paper I

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?

(a) I and II only

(b) II and III only

(c) I and III only

(d) I, II and III

Answer: (d) I, II and III

Statement I – Correct
Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are man-made proteins produced in laboratories using biotechnology techniques.
They are designed to mimic the immune system’s ability to fight harmful pathogens.
Statement II – Correct
Monoclonal antibodies stimulate immunological function by binding to specific antigens such as viruses, cancer cells, or toxins.
This binding can:
- Neutralize pathogens
- Mark them for destruction by immune cells
- Block disease-causing biological processes
Statement III – Correct
Monoclonal antibodies have been used in the treatment of viral infections, including Nipah virus.
For example, the monoclonal antibody m102.4 has been used experimentally to treat Nipah virus infections with positive outcomes.

Answer: (d) I, II and III