Final answer:
Gene therapy is used to restore defective genes in pluripotent stem cells, which can treat various conditions, including HIV, by infusing modified stem cells into the patient. 1) is the correct answer.
Step-by-step explanation:
Scientists can use gene therapy to restore defective genes in pluripotent stem cells. This advanced therapeutic technique involves the insertion of working genes into a patient's cells to repair inherited genetic defects or treat diseases. In the case of conditions like HIV, modified stem cells can be infused back into the patient to impart a functional immune response or correct genetic abnormalities.
Utilizing viral vectors, the correct version of genes can be introduced into human cells, which then differentiate and multiply, aiming to replace or repair malfunctioning genes within the patient's body.
For conditions caused by single-gene defects such as cystic fibrosis, hemophilia, muscular dystrophy, and sickle cell anemia, gene therapy has shown potential. In particular, the treatment of severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) via gene therapy has been a notable advancement. Although cell-based therapy also utilizes stem cells to treat diseases, in this context, gene therapy is the precise method used for modifying genes within pluripotent stem cells.