Retinal diseases: RNA therapeutics show promise but is India ready?
(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 7)
Topic: GS2 – Social Justice – Health, GS3 – Science and Technology |
Context |
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Gene Therapy Breakthroughs
- In 2017, the U.S. FDA approved the first gene therapy for blindness caused by RPE65 gene mutations.
- Over 50 clinical trials are exploring gene therapies for IRDs, but awareness in India remains low.
Inherited Retinal Diseases (IRDs) and Their Impact |
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RNA-Based Therapies: A Safer Alternative
- RNA-based therapies, like antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), offer temporary, precise treatments without altering DNA.
- ASOs have successfully treated diseases like spinal muscular atrophy and are now being tested for retinal conditions.
- Advanced RNA-editing techniques, such as ADAR enzymes and suppressor tRNAs, can correct genetic mutations and restore retinal function.
Precision Medicine in India
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- Precision medicine tailors treatments to genetic makeup, lifestyle, and other factors.
- India lacks large-scale studies to map IRD mutations, essential for developing targeted therapies.
- Genetic mutations vary across India’s diverse population, requiring extensive research.
Barriers and Solutions
- Challenges include low awareness, limited genetic counselling, insufficient funding, and poor diagnostic access in rural areas.
- Collaboration between research institutions, like CSIR-IGIB and L.V. Prasad Eye Institute, has led to precision therapy development.
- Partnerships between global and local pharmaceutical companies can improve treatment accessibility.
Conclusion
- RNA-based therapies offer hope for treating IRDs in India.
- Prioritizing genetic research, raising awareness, and fostering collaborations are crucial to making these treatments accessible and effective for patients.
Practice Question: Examine the potential of RNA-based therapies in treating diseases. Discuss the challenges and strategies for advancing precision medicine in India. (250 Words /15 marks) |
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