Which of the following is true of gene therapy? a. Because many diseases are the

Question

Which of the following is true of gene therapy?

a. Because many diseases are the result of multiple genes and their interactions with other genes and the environment, gene therapy is unlikely to produce quick cures.

b. Gene therapy has failed virtually every time it has been tried and has fallen out of favor with clinical researchers.

c. Gene therapy has proven to be successful with a wide range of diseases and is often the only hope for a cure.

d. Gene therapy is widely viewed as unethical and is illegal in the United States.

Explanation / Answer

c. Gene therapy has proven to be successful with a wide range of diseases and is often the only hope for a cure.

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 being tested only for diseases that have no other cures.

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