Q. What is R21/Matrix-M?
a) Vaccine against Malaria developed by Serum Institute of India
b) Vaccine against Malaria developed by Bharat Biotech International
c) Vaccine against AIDS developed by Serum Institute of India
d) Vaccine against AIDS developed by Bharat Biotech International
Question from UPPSC Prelims 2024
Correct Answer: a) Vaccine against Malaria developed by Serum Institute of India
Explanation:
R21/Matrix-M is a vaccine developed to combat malaria, a life-threatening disease caused by Plasmodium parasites transmitted through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. This vaccine was developed by the Serum Institute of India in collaboration with the University of Oxford. It is considered a significant advancement in the fight against malaria, particularly in regions where the disease is endemic, such as sub-Saharan Africa.
The vaccine uses a protein-based platform combined with the Matrix-M adjuvant to enhance immune response. It has shown promising results in clinical trials, demonstrating high efficacy in preventing malaria, especially in children who are most vulnerable to the disease.
Thus, the correct answer is a) Vaccine against Malaria developed by Serum Institute of India.
