2007-08-28 12:28:08 · 6 answers · asked by Anonymous in Science & Mathematics ➔ Biology
Gene therapy is designed to introduce genetic material into cells to compensate for abnormal genes or to make a beneficial protein. If a mutated gene causes a necessary protein to be faulty or missing, gene therapy may be able to introduce a normal copy of the gene to restore the function of the protein.
A gene that is inserted directly into a cell usually does not function. Instead, a carrier called a vector is genetically engineered to deliver the gene. Certain viruses are often used as vectors because they can deliver the new gene by infecting the cell. The viruses are modified so they can’t cause disease when used in people. Some types of virus, such as retroviruses, integrate their genetic material (including the new gene) into a chromosome in the human cell. Other viruses, such as adenoviruses, introduce their DNA into the nucleus of the cell, but the DNA is not integrated into a chromosome.
The vector can be injected or given intravenously (by IV) directly into a specific tissue in the body, where it is taken up by individual cells. Alternately, a sample of the patient’s cells can be removed and exposed to the vector in a laboratory setting. The cells containing the vector are then returned to the patient. If the treatment is successful, the new gene delivered by the vector will make a functioning protein.
Researchers must overcome many technical challenges before gene therapy will be a practical approach to treating disease. For example, scientists must find better ways to deliver genes and target them to particular cells. They must also ensure that new genes are precisely controlled by the body.
nfd
2007-08-28 12:32:41 · answer #1 · answered by fishineasy™ 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Cells with the revised gene are placed (injected, surgically installed, etc.) in the location where similar cells are not working properly. Insulin producing cells might go one place, blood cell producing another. If the placed cells survive, they produce the missing substance.
2007-08-28 12:33:10 · answer #2 · answered by Mike1942f 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Take chromosome 28 and give it a thorough massage.
2007-08-28 12:30:53 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
They change the Y chromosomes into X chromosomes or vice versa.
2007-08-28 12:31:19 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
it doesn't... at least not very well yet.
that's one of the biggest obstacles in connecting biomedical research and medicine. it's too difficult and too expensive right now.
2007-08-28 12:47:03 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
by killing mexicans
2007-08-28 12:30:33 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 1⤋