Gene Addition
It is a gene therapy technique by which a gene is added or inserted by non-homologous recombination. The gene to be added is placed in a viral or non-viral vector and is delivered to the target cell. Retroviruses are the most successful vectors used in this process. If the new gene is not placed in the exact position, it might create errors in the following gene expression. Still, gene addition is comparatively more successful than other techniques like gene replacement.
Gene Replacement
It is a recent advancement in gene therapy that involves replacing the missing or damaged gene with the normal gene. This replacement involves homologous recombination. This gene replacement technique can also be used to remove exons, add or delete a gene and induce point mutations.
Typically, the new gene is placed in a vector and delivered to the target site. Viral vectors are most commonly used in this process. Here, the replacement of the gene occurs at its original locus and aids in the production of proper functional proteins. It is usually employed in the treatment of inherited retinal diseases. Also, it is more suitable to cure recessive diseases.
Difference between Gene Addition and Gene Replacement
Gene Addition |
Gene Replacement |
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It is a gene insertion technique that involves non-homologous recombination. |
It is a gene replacement technique that involves homologous recombination. |
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It is a comparatively more successful technique. |
It is an emerging therapy that is comparatively less successful. |
Frequently Asked Questions on Difference between Gene Addition and Gene Replacement
What is gene therapy?
It is a therapeutic technique by which genes of a cell are modified or treated to cure or prevent a diseased condition. This usually involves delivering an error-free gene to the target site via vector. If the error-free functional gene is delivered to germ cells, it is called germline gene therapy. If it is targeted into any cell other than germ cells or gametes, then it is called somatic gene therapy.
What is homologous and non-homologous recombination?
Homologous recombination involves the exchange of genetic information between two identical strands of nucleic acids. Non-homologous or illegitimate recombination involves the exchange of genetic material between two unrelated strands of nucleic acids.
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