close
test_template

Gene Therapy: Concept and Types

download print

About this sample

About this sample

close

Words: 492 |

Page: 1|

3 min read

Published: Feb 12, 2019

Words: 492|Page: 1|3 min read

Published: Feb 12, 2019

Gene therapy was first discovered in the mid 1970’s where researchers were able to isolate certain type of genes from DNA. The term gene therapy came about in the 1980’s and pushed research further. When we’re born each individual are born with a set of chromosomes that the gene that codes for our appearances, personality, and long term health. When of of them genes has flaws in the DNA it can lead to many diseases. Some could be sever and some could be moderate, these include diabetes, cancer, or sickle cells anemia. By the use and development of gene therapy we can reduce or recover from these diseases before they even show their first symptoms.

'Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned'?

There are two main type gene therapy treatment. However, they differ depending on the consequences of the patients. Somatic is the first cell gene therapy. In somatic gene therapy, the gene that does function properly are replaced by the correct sequence of the gene. Once this is done the body makes the correct protein and the genes that were causing the disease are than finally been rid of from the body. It is very important to treat enough cells so that at least certain amount of the correct protein reaches the site of action. Somatic is only given to the patient that is in need and is not passed on to the next generation. This is because any rearranging of genes happens in the somatic or non-reproductive cells.

The second type of gene therapy usually take place in the germline cells or reproductive cells. Germline therapy is usually describe as the gene therapy where the correct or the right gene is placed into the reproductive cells. Therefore, when an individual that have been given the treatment will have the right or correct gene when reproducing his or her offspring instead of abandon ones. However, unlike somatic this treatment will affect both the offspring and the parent themselves. It is also possible to place a control gene in an early stages of an embryo so when this individual is born it will already have the correct gene sequence in there body. This will only effect the embryo and the parent. One very important thing to remember or keep in mind is that germline therapy does not only effect the individual but will also effect their potential offspring as well. Therefore, germline therapy is passed on into the gene pool of future generations.

Get a custom paper now from our expert writers.

The main challenge in gene therapy is how can we get the right/ correct genetic material to the appropriate cells. There are three types of delivery systems stated by Encyclopedia Britannica online 1998. There is chemical methods, there are physical methods and there is a viral vector. The methods that have been used the most and the most accurate method is the viral vector. Modern technology has developed vectors that encapsulate therapeutic genes, for it to accurately deliver the correct gene to faulty or cells that doesn’t work properly.

Image of Alex Wood
This essay was reviewed by
Alex Wood

Cite this Essay

Gene Therapy: Concept and Types. (2019, February 11). GradesFixer. Retrieved March 28, 2024, from https://gradesfixer.com/free-essay-examples/gene-therapy-concept-and-types/
“Gene Therapy: Concept and Types.” GradesFixer, 11 Feb. 2019, gradesfixer.com/free-essay-examples/gene-therapy-concept-and-types/
Gene Therapy: Concept and Types. [online]. Available at: <https://gradesfixer.com/free-essay-examples/gene-therapy-concept-and-types/> [Accessed 28 Mar. 2024].
Gene Therapy: Concept and Types [Internet]. GradesFixer. 2019 Feb 11 [cited 2024 Mar 28]. Available from: https://gradesfixer.com/free-essay-examples/gene-therapy-concept-and-types/
copy
Keep in mind: This sample was shared by another student.
  • 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
  • Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours
Write my essay

Still can’t find what you need?

Browse our vast selection of original essay samples, each expertly formatted and styled

close

Where do you want us to send this sample?

    By clicking “Continue”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.

    close

    Be careful. This essay is not unique

    This essay was donated by a student and is likely to have been used and submitted before

    Download this Sample

    Free samples may contain mistakes and not unique parts

    close

    Sorry, we could not paraphrase this essay. Our professional writers can rewrite it and get you a unique paper.

    close

    Thanks!

    Please check your inbox.

    We can write you a custom essay that will follow your exact instructions and meet the deadlines. Let's fix your grades together!

    clock-banner-side

    Get Your
    Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

    exit-popup-close
    We can help you get a better grade and deliver your task on time!
    • Instructions Followed To The Letter
    • Deadlines Met At Every Stage
    • Unique And Plagiarism Free
    Order your paper now