ESSAY ON Precision biotherapeutics
When we hear about precision biotherapeutics it sounds different and interesting, it creates curiosity in peoples to know, “what this new topic is ?” So, the question arises, “What is precision biotherapeutics?” Precision biotherapeutics is a medical strategy that focuses of creating personalized medicines based on each patient’s specific genetic, environmental, and lifestyle characteristics. This approach represents a significant shift from the conventional, “one-size-fits-all” paradigm, which often uses conventional therapies that may not work for every patients. Again one question is arises in mind that, “Who discovered biotherapeutics and why?” While it’s difficult to attribute the discovery of precision biotherapeutics to a single person, here we mention some contributes and key pioneers are :-
1. Archibald Garrod (1857-1936) :- A British physician who first proposed the concept of personalized biotherapeutics in the early 20th century.
2. Roger Williams (1893-19880) :- An American scientist, highlighting the importance of genetic variation in disease treatment in 1950.
3. David Weatherall (1933-2018)
4. Francis Collins (b. 1950)
5. Elizabeth Blackburn (b. 1948)
This three scientist from different region were contribute their knowledge, experience and studies in the discovery of precision biotherapeutics.
This foundation of precision biotherapeutics lies in the knowledge that diseases, particularly complex ones like cancer, appear differently in different people due to genetic differences. Advancements in genomics, bioinformatics, and molecular biology allow researchers to identify specific genetic variants or biomarkers that indicate a patient’s likely response to a given treatment. This knowledge allows for more effective and minimal side effects in treatment.
USES OF PRECISION BIOTHERAPEUTICS :-
Oncology is a key domain where precision biotherapeutics is being used. Conventional cancer therapies, such as radiation and chemotherapy, target quickly dividing cells, causing serious side effects. However, precision medicines allows for targeted medicines that selectively targets cancer cells with specific genetic abnormalities, preserving healthy cells and minimizing adverse effects. Precision biotherapeutics is also being used in cardiology, neurology, and infectious disorders. Genetic testing can help identify people who are highly susceptible to diseases, such as familial hypercholesterolemia in cardiology. Understanding the genetic composition of pathogens can lead to more effective vaccines and therapies.
CHALLENGES :-
Despite its potential precision biotherapeutics faces challenges such as the high cost of creating individualized treatments, potential healthcare access disparities, ethical concerns about genetic testing, and data privacy. However, precision biotherapeutics offers the possibility of more personalized and successful therapies, making it an innovative approach in contemporary medicine.
Disha Pramod Wankhede
University/College name : RTM University Nagpur