Biotechnology Applications in Food & Health — NEET Biology

Correct answer: A — S1, S2, and S3 only

This question aims to differentiate between beneficial applications of biotechnology and the ethical issues discussed in the chapter, including misconceptions. S1: NCERT states that gene therapy involving periodic infusions of genetically engineered lymphocytes for ADA deficiency is *not* a permanent cure because the cells are not immortal. A permanent cure would involve introducing the gene at early embryonic stages. This statement is NOT correct. S2: Transgenic animals are created for various reasons, including studying normal physiology, disease models, producing biological products (like Rosie's milk), vaccine safety testing, and chemical safety testing. While some of these might indirectly aid commercial viability, their primary purpose is scientific or medical advancement, not just commercial testing. Rosie was specifically for producing human protein-enriched milk. This statement is NOT correct. S3: The production of human insulin using recombinant DNA technology is presented as a major medical advancement, making mass production of safe and effective therapeutic drugs possible, and does not induce unwanted immunological responses. It is not listed as a major ethical concern in NCERT. This statement is NOT correct. S4: The Indian Parliament has indeed cleared the second amendment of the Indian Patents Bill to take issues of biopiracy into consideration, including patent terms of emergency provisions, research, and development initiatives. This statement is correct. S5: NCERT mentions a 'growing public anger' because companies are granted patents for products using genetic materials and resources long used by indigenous people, implying a feeling of injustice and inadequate benefit sharing. This statement is correct. Therefore, statements S1, S2, and S3 are NOT correct.