Biopharma SHAKTI Strategy: Biologics and Biosimilars Explained
Why in the news
The Union Budget 2026 pushed biologics through Biopharma SHAKTI to lift the biotechnology and pharmaceutical sector.
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Biologics | Medicines from living organisms; large, complex proteins; examples: monoclonal antibodies, vaccines, insulin; used in cancer, diabetes, autoimmune diseases |
| Biosimilars | Near-identical copies of biologics; similar safety and effectiveness; cheaper, so treatment is more affordable |
How biologics are made
- Pick a host cell: bacteria, yeast or mammalian.
- Genetic engineering to make the desired protein.
- Culture in bioreactors.
- Purify the protein.
- Test each batch for safety and consistency.
Immunogenicity
The ability to trigger an immune response; the body may reject a biologic, so rigorous testing and monitoring are needed.
Exam angle
- Strategy: Biopharma SHAKTI.
- Examples of biologics: monoclonal antibodies, vaccines, insulin.