Friday, September 25, 2015

Chapter 2 : Comparison of the Two Types of Gene Therapy

Chapter 2 : Comparison of the Two Types of Gene Therapy



There are two types of the gene therapy; germline gene therapy, somatic gene thrapy.   In germline gene therapy, the scientists try to treat diseases by inserting a normal gene instead of the faulty one only in germ cells, which are the sperms and eggs. In fact, the modifications of germline genes can be passed through generations, which is very good. Why? Because modifying the abnormal genes for certain diseases  in one generation, will be passed to the second generation and we will be eliminating the disease from occurring and no one will suffer from this disease any more. Even though this is a good opportunity to eliminate diseases entirely from one family, this type of therapy is not being attempted because there are some concerns of the risks that germline gene therapy can make such as altering another normal gene and causing new defect. Another consideration regarding this type of gene therapy is that few people may use this therapy for genetic enhancement such as choosing eye color for their next generation or increasing beauty and intelligence, which will give them more opportunities than others and may raise moral issues.  
            In the second type of gene therapy, somatic cell, scientists try to modify a gene that is in the body cells such as introducing normal genes to skin cells, bone marrow cell, blood cells, and a lot more. Unlike germline gene therapy, this type cannot be passed through generations and it will only affect the individual who is being treated. Even though there are many obstacles facing the scientists in the field, like how to deliver certain gene to the target cell. There are many clinical trials in their late phases which promise that somatic cell  gene therapy approach will be an effective treatment to many human diseases in future.  
 References:
http://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJM199310143291607
http://www.news-medical.net/health/Gene-Therapy-Types.aspx

2 comments:

  1. I did not know there were two types of gene therapy, but it makes sense that there would be. I'm intrigued by the germline therapy because we could someday eliminate some serious hereditary diseases from the gene pool. I can't wait to read more on your topic.

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  2. I wonder if there are certain conditions that can only be treated with either germane or somatic gene therapy and what would make one better for a condition than another. Very interesting.

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