Explain recombinant human proteins in treatment
Outline advantages of using recombinant insulin, factor VIII and adenosine deaminase.
A Level; Cambridge International Biology 9700, 2028–2030. This is curriculum teaching, not medical advice or a claim that a treatment is suitable for an individual. Written responses are self-checked
Before you begin
- DNA stores genetic information; genes can be expressed to produce RNA and protein.
Work on paper. Try each question before revealing help, and explain why your method works.
Quick readiness check
Name one recombinant human protein in the syllabus examples.
What you will learn
- Use the named examples of recombinant human proteins
- Explain consistency, supply and compatibility advantages
Build the explanation
Genetic engineering can produce human insulin, factor VIII and adenosine deaminase (ADA) in suitable host cells. Recombinant production can provide a reliable large-scale supply of a human protein with consistent composition, reducing reliance on extraction from animal tissues or scarce donor material. The proteins can be purified for clinical use.
Use the evidence carefully
A recombinant protein is not automatically effective or suitable for every patient. Treatment requires clinical testing, quality control, correct dosing and medical supervision; the syllabus asks for advantages, not individual treatment advice.
Pause and explain
Give two advantages of recombinant ADA production over a scarce tissue source.
Worked example
Why can recombinant human insulin be preferable to extracting insulin from animal pancreases?
Show the worked solution
- Host cells can produce a human protein.
- Production can be scaled and standardised.
Answer Recombinant production can provide a consistent, scalable supply of human insulin without relying on animal pancreas extraction.
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Write your answer and reasoning first. Use a hint only if you are stuck. The model solution is for self-checking; your written work is not automatically marked.
What human protein is used to treat haemophilia A in the syllabus example?
Give me a hint
Identify the relevant material or technology and explain each step.
Compare my reasoning
- The clotting protein named is factor VIII.
- It can be produced recombinantly.
Factor VIII, the clotting protein used in the specified treatment example.
Look for these in your work
- Method identified
- Steps linked to function
Why is consistent protein structure important in a treatment?
Give me a hint
Use the stated example to justify a conclusion.
Compare my reasoning
- The biological activity depends on protein structure.
- Quality control supports consistent dosing.
Consistent structure supports consistent biological activity and helps ensure that a treatment dose contains the intended protein.
Look for these in your work
- Evidence interpreted
- Limits stated
Give two advantages of recombinant ADA production over a scarce tissue source.
Give me a hint
Apply the idea to a new application or trade-off.
Compare my reasoning
- Reliable supply.
- Consistent composition or reduced donor dependence.
Recombinant ADA can be produced in a more scalable, consistent supply and reduces dependence on scarce donor or animal tissue sources.
Look for these in your work
- Application explained
- Claim appropriately bounded
Common mistakes
- Claiming recombinant protein has no treatment risks
- Confusing genetic screening with protein production
What can you explain now?
Name one recombinant human protein in the syllabus examples.
Compare with the explanation
Insulin, factor VIII or ADA
Each can be produced using engineered cells.
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Make it stick
What advantages can recombinant human protein production offer?
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