Question

Gene therapy involves __________?

1) adding a functioning version of a defective gene to the cells of an individual
2) no serious ethical questions
3) all of the above
4) allowing individuals to follow the natural progression of a genetic disorder, accompanied by psychological counseling, then drug treatment when the condition becomes life-threatening
5) replacing organs affected with genetic disorders by transplants

Answer 1

Gene therapy involves adding a functioning version of a defective gene to an individual's cells, often using a viral vector, to treat genetic disorders. While still experimental, some gene therapies, such as for SCID, have seen success.

Step-by-step explanation:

Gene therapy is a sophisticated technique in genetic engineering aimed at curing genetic disorders. It is achieved by adding a functioning version of a defective gene to the cells of an individual.

This process typically involves the use of a viral vector, such as an adenovirus, to deliver the healthy gene into the patient's genome. Advanced forms of gene therapy can also target the mutation directly at its original location within the genome.

Aside from addressing genetic disorders, gene therapy holds promise for the future as research continues to solve the hurdles currently limiting its success. However, gene therapies are mostly still experimental, with some treatments, like those for severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID), making significant progress.