Proteins are more than just structural and functional molecules; they are life-saving tools in modern medicine. From treating diabetes to controlling bleeding, therapeutic proteins play a vital role in healthcare and biotechnology.
In this article, you’ll learn:
- The top therapeutic uses of proteins
- Functions of medically important proteins like insulin, thrombin, antibodies, and renin
- Applications in pharmaceuticals, diagnostics, and cosmetics
- NEET-relevant notes, real-world examples, and FAQs
What Are Therapeutic Proteins?
Therapeutic proteins are specially synthesized or extracted proteins used to treat or manage diseases, replace missing biological molecules, or support body functions. They are commonly administered as injections, biologics, or gene-engineered molecules.
These proteins are either:
- Naturally occurring human proteins
- Genetically engineered using recombinant DNA technology
Top Therapeutic Proteins and Their Medical Uses
1. Thrombin and Fibrinogen – Blood Clotting Agents 🩸
- Function: Help form blood clots by converting fibrinogen to fibrin.
- Use: Applied during surgeries or to stop excessive bleeding (hemophilia or trauma cases).
🧪 Fibrin sealants are widely used in surgeries as natural adhesives.
2. Antigens (Antibodies) – Immunity Boosters 💉
- Function: Antibodies recognize and neutralize foreign antigens (bacteria, viruses).
- Use: In blood transfusions, autoimmune therapy, and monoclonal antibody treatments (e.g., for cancer or COVID-19).
💡 Fun Fact: Monoclonal antibodies like rituximab and trastuzumab are protein-based cancer therapies.
3. Insulin – Blood Glucose Regulator 🩺
- Function: Regulates glucose uptake in cells; produced by pancreas (β-cells).
- Use: Life-saving therapy for Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.
🌱 Recombinant human insulin (e.g., Humulin) is manufactured using genetically modified E. coli.
4. Renin – Osmoregulation and Kidney Health 💧
- Function: Involved in the renin-angiotensin system, which regulates blood pressure and fluid balance.
- Use: Diagnostic marker in hypertension and kidney disorders.
🧠Remember: Renin ≠ Rennin (digestive enzyme used in cheese-making)
Extended Applications of Proteins in Medicine and Beyond
Proteins aren't limited to core treatments. They’re also used in:
✅ Cosmetics
- Collagen and elastin are protein-based ingredients in anti-aging creams and skin repair serums.
✅ Biological Buffers
- Protein solutions maintain pH stability in biochemical tests and IV fluids (e.g., albumin solution).
✅ Toxins and Vaccines
- Proteins like botulinum toxin (Botox) are used for both medical (muscle spasms) and cosmetic purposes.
- Protein-based vaccines (e.g., Hepatitis B) use viral proteins to trigger immunity.
Classification of Therapeutic Proteins
| Type | Examples | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Hormones | Insulin, Growth hormone | Diabetes, Dwarfism |
| Clotting Factors | Thrombin, Factor VIII | Hemophilia, surgery bleeding control |
| Monoclonal Antibodies | Herceptin, Rituximab | Cancer, autoimmune diseases |
| Enzymes | Streptokinase, Asparaginase | Heart attack, leukemia |
| Receptor Modulators | Erythropoietin (EPO) | Anemia in chronic kidney disease |
| Diagnostic Proteins | Renin, Troponin | Cardiac, kidney, and endocrine disorders |
Why Are Therapeutic Proteins Preferred?
- High specificity
- Low toxicity
- Mimic natural body functions
- Easily engineered via biotechnology
👨🔬 Most are now produced using recombinant DNA technology, making them safer and more widely available.
NEET & CBSE Biology Notes: Proteins in Therapy
| Protein | Function | NEET Keyword Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Insulin | Glucose regulation | Hormone, Diabetes treatment |
| Fibrinogen | Clot formation | Blood coagulation |
| Antibodies | Antigen neutralization | Immunity, Blood transfusion |
| Renin | Osmoregulation | Kidney, Blood pressure |
| Albumin | Blood volume maintenance | Buffer, Transport protein |
📘 Tip for NEET: Understand mechanisms + examples. Expect MCQs like:
Q: Which protein helps in blood clotting?
A. Amylase
B. Fibrinogen ✅
C. Albumin
D. Renin
FAQs on Therapeutic Protein Use
Q1. What is the most common therapeutic protein worldwide?
A1. Insulin, used for treating diabetes.Q2. Are all antibodies proteins?
A2. Yes, antibodies (immunoglobulins) are large, Y-shaped glycoproteins.Q3. How is recombinant insulin made?
A3. Using genetically engineered E. coli or yeast that produce human insulin.Q4. What’s the difference between renin and rennin?
A4. Renin controls blood pressure; Rennin is an enzyme used in milk digestion.
