|
Gene Therapy, Treatment &
Prevention of Disease
Gene therapy is an experimental
technique that uses genes to treat
or prevent disease. In the future,
this technique may allow doctors to
treat a disorder by inserting a gene
into a patient’s cells instead of
using drugs or surgery. Researchers
are testing several approaches to
gene therapy, including:
Replacing a mutated gene that causes
disease with a healthy copy of the
gene.
Inactivating, or “knocking out,” a
mutated gene that is functioning
improperly.
Introducing a new gene into the body
to help fight a disease.
Although gene therapy is a promising
treatment option for a number of
diseases (including inherited
disorders, some types of cancer, and
certain viral infections), the
technique remains risky and is still
under study to make sure that it
will be safe and effective. Gene
therapy is currently only being
tested for the treatment of diseases
that have no other cures.
Content Courtesy : ghr.nlm.nih.gov
Note : Information herein is
provided for informational purposes
only and is not a substitute for
professional medical advice. You
should not use this information for
diagnosing or treating a medical or
health condition. If you have or
suspect you have a medical problem,
promptly contact your professional
healthcare provider. Please consult
your healthcare provider before
beginning any course of
supplementation or treatment.
|