FAQs on Gene Therapy

Question 1

1. What is gene therapy?

Accepted Answer

Ans. Gene therapy is a medical technique that involves manipulating a person's genes to treat or prevent diseases. It aims to introduce new or modified genes into a patient's cells to replace defective or missing genes, or to enhance the body's ability to fight diseases.

Question 2

2. How does gene therapy work?

Accepted Answer

Ans. Gene therapy works by delivering therapeutic genes into a patient's cells. This can be done through various methods, such as using viruses to carry the genes into the cells or directly injecting the genes into specific tissues. Once inside the cells, the therapeutic genes can produce proteins that help to correct genetic abnormalities or enhance the body's natural defense mechanisms against diseases.

Question 3

3. What are the potential benefits of gene therapy?

Accepted Answer

Ans. Gene therapy holds the potential to treat or cure a wide range of genetic disorders, including inherited diseases and certain types of cancer. It can also be used to improve the effectiveness of traditional treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy, by making cancer cells more susceptible to these treatments. Additionally, gene therapy has the potential to provide long-term or permanent solutions to genetic diseases, reducing the need for ongoing treatments.

Question 4

4. What are the potential risks and challenges associated with gene therapy?

Accepted Answer

Ans. Gene therapy has some potential risks and challenges. These include the possibility of an immune response to the introduced genes or the viral vectors used to deliver them, the risk of unintended gene mutations or disruptions, and the potential for the therapy to have limited effectiveness or durability. Additionally, there are ethical considerations surrounding gene therapy, such as ensuring equitable access to the treatment and addressing concerns about genetically modifying human beings.

Question 5

5. What is the current state of gene therapy research and development?

Accepted Answer

Ans. Gene therapy is a rapidly evolving field, with ongoing research and development aiming to improve its safety and effectiveness. Several gene therapies have already been approved for use in certain countries, including treatments for certain types of cancer and inherited diseases. However, there is still much to learn and explore in this field, and ongoing studies are being conducted to address the challenges and potential of gene therapy.

Gene Therapy Video Lecture - Science & Technology for UPSC CSE

Science & Technology for UPSC CSE

Current Affairs

GS Subjects

Reference Books

Practice

Mains Optionals

Study Gene Therapy on the App