All of the body's mechanisms are genetically controlled. Every response to an environmental stimulus has a genetic base. When a disease, even the common cold, strikes us it means that the genetic defenses of our body were unable to prevent the occurrence of the disorder. Hopefully, once we actually have the disease, our genes will activate and enable our body to rid itself of the sickness. Undoubtedly, there are a large number of disease organisms, or other causes of disease, with which we daily, and unknowingly, come into contact. We manage this because our genes are able to activate adequate body defenses before the malady becomes established.
Unfortunately, there are many disorders against which we have inadequate defenses. At present, we give the patient drugs, or radiation, or surgery, to treat or control the symptoms of a disease or disorder. Wouldn't it be best if we could correct the genetic defect that allowed the problem to occur? It may be that in the future we can do this through gene therapy.
After you have read the above general and excellent article on gene therapy, click here to see how gene therapy is being applied to one of humanity's most common and serious diseases.
Any method of treatment, especially one that might change your gene structure, for disease must operate under a firm set of rules.
FOR INVESTIGATION: For each inquiry, write your thoughts in a short paragraph for later comparison.
Questions and Answers About Gene Therapy
Gene Therapy for Coronary Artery Disease
The Guideline for Safety and Quality Assurance of the Drugs for Gene Therapy