Genetic medicine fundamentals UPSC Prelims PYQ 2026

Which of the following statements with regard to genetic medicine is/are correct?

1. Genetic medicines correct/compensate for the faulty genes responsible for disease.
2. Engineered viruses and lipid nanoparticles are used as carriers of the genetic medicine.
3. Genetic medicines alter the entire DNA sequence.

Select the answer using the code given below:

1. 1 only
2. 2 and 3 only
3. 1 and 2 only
4. 1, 2 and 3

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct

• Genetic medicines aim to replace defective genes, repair faulty genes, silence harmful genes, or compensate for missing gene function.

Statement 2 is correct

• Genetic medicines require delivery systems called vectors/carriers such as engineered viruses (viral vectors) and lipid nanoparticles (LNPs). These help deliver genetic material into target cells.

Statement 3 is incorrect

• Genetic medicines generally target a specific gene, specific DNA segment or RNA pathway. They do not alter the entire DNA sequence of an organism.

Answer: (c) 1 and 2 only; Difficulty Level: Medium