Question

Gene therapy for deleterious mutations in blood cells is becoming possible by introducing normal genes into blood cell precursors in the laboratory and re-injecting these cells into the patient. Which of the following would not be associated with this kind of gene therapy research?

• A. Attempting to place the normal gene in a vector, which will help the gene integrate chromosome
• B. Utilising virus vectors which have some of their own genes removed
• C. Utilising a suitably modified HIV virus
• D. None of the above

Answer 1

The correct option is D None of the above

The objective of gene therapy is to treat diseases by introducing functional genes into the patient's body to alter the cells involved in the disease process by either replacing missing genes or providing copies of functioning genes to replace nonfunctioning ones. The inserted genes can be naturally-occurring genes that produce the desired effect or may be genetically engineered (or altered) genes. There are two types of gene therapy. Germ-line gene therapy introduces genes into reproductive cells (sperm and eggs) to correct genetic abnormalities that could be passed on to future generations. In somatic gene therapy, the therapeutic genes are inserted into tissue or cells to produce a naturally occurring protein or substance that is lacking or not functioning correctly in an individual patient. With gene therapy, the treatment or elimination of inherited diseases or physical conditions due to gene mutations are possible.