Q1. With reference to stem-cell interventions and clinical trials in India, consider the following statements:
- Stem cells are characterised by their capacity for self-renewal and potential differentiation into specialised cell types.
- An intervention being investigated in a clinical trial automatically permits its commercial use as standard clinical treatment.
- Clinical trials involving human participants may be undertaken to evaluate the safety and efficacy or effects of an intervention.
- The National Guidelines for Stem Cell Research, 2017 were issued jointly by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the Department of Biotechnology (DBT).
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 1, 3 and 4 only
(c) 2 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Answer: (b) 1, 3 and 4 only
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is Correct: Self-renewal and differentiation are defining properties of stem cells.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: Being under clinical investigation does not automatically make an intervention approved for routine or commercial clinical use.
- Statement 3 is Correct: Clinical trials systematically assess interventions in human participants, including their safety and efficacy/effects.
- Statement 4 is Correct: The 2017 National Guidelines for Stem Cell Research were issued by ICMR and DBT.
