Question 1: Define monoclonal antibodies and explain their significance in medicine.

Answer: Monoclonal antibodies are identical antibodies produced by clones of a single immune cell, used in medicine for targeted treatment of diseases such as cancer and autoimmune disorders.

Question 2: Describe a primary ethical concern associated with the use of monoclonal antibodies derived from animal cells.

Answer: The concern is the potential harm and suffering caused to animals used in the production process.

Question 3: Multiple Choice: Which of the following is a common ethical argument against the use of monoclonal antibodies produced using mouse cells?

Answer: They involve animal testing, which raises welfare concerns

Question 4: Fill in the blank: Ethical debates over monoclonal antibodies often centre around issues of animal _______ and _______.

Answer: welfare, testing

Question 5: Explain how the use of human cell lines in monoclonal antibody production can raise ethical issues.

Answer: Using human cell lines may raise concerns about consent, privacy, and the moral implications of manipulating human tissues for commercial or medical purposes.

Question 6: Calculate the surface area in square metres of a typical monoclonal antibody molecule that is approximately 10 nanometres in diameter. (Use the formula for the surface area of a sphere: 4πr², where r is the radius).

Answer: Surface area ≈ 3.14 × 10^-16 m²

Question 7: Design a simple ethical framework that scientists could follow when developing monoclonal antibodies for human use. Include at least three key principles.

Answer: Principles could include ensuring animal welfare, obtaining informed consent for human tissue use, and conducting thorough risk assessments to minimise harm and maximise benefit.

Question 8: Discuss how monoclonal antibody technology can be ethically justified despite potential concerns.

Answer: Ethical justification can be based on the potential to save lives, improve quality of life, and the implementation of strict regulations and welfare standards to minimise harm.

Question 9: Identify and explain one real-world ethical dilemma faced by pharmaceutical companies developing monoclonal antibody therapies.

Answer: Balancing the high costs of development and access to treatment, which raises issues of affordability and equity for patients.

Question 10: Propose a policy measure that could help address ethical concerns in the production of monoclonal antibodies.

Answer: Implementing strict regulations on animal testing, ensuring transparency, and promoting alternative methods such as cell culture technologies.