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
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.
ReplyDeleteI 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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