Q. With reference to carbon nanotubes, consider the following statements:

Explanation:

Carbon Nanotubes UPSC 2020 PYQ

Statement 1: They can be used as carriers of drugs and antigens in the human body.

This statement is correct. Carbon nanotubes are effective carriers for drugs and antigens in the human body. Their high surface area and ability to be functionalized with various biomolecules make them suitable for targeted drug delivery systems.

Statement 2: They can be made into artificial blood capillaries for an injured part of the human body.

This statement is not entirely accurate as of the current state of research. While carbon nanotubes have potential in biomedical applications, creating artificial blood capillaries is not currently feasible. Challenges include biocompatibility, integration with existing vasculature, and preventing clotting and immune responses.

Statement 3: They can be used in biochemical sensors.

This statement is correct. Carbon nanotubes are widely used in biochemical sensors. Their high electrical conductivity and surface area allow for sensitive and specific detection of biological molecules like glucose, DNA, and proteins.

Statement 4: Carbon nanotubes are biodegradable.

This statement is correct but requires some nuance. The biodegradability of carbon nanotubes depends on their functionalization and environment. Some types can degrade under specific conditions, such as in the presence of oxidative enzymes. However, degradation rates vary, and some forms may persist for extended periods in biological systems or the environment.

Given the analysis above, the correct answer is (c) 1, 3, and 4 only. Statement 2 is not entirely accurate with the current state of technology and understanding of carbon nanotubes in biomedical engineering, making options (a), (b), and (d) incorrect. This is the official answer but other websites are saying (d).