Activity – Gene therapy

TASK 1
Make a graphic organizer of gene therapy types and techniques.

Guide Questions:
1. How somatic gene therapy can be used to treat and how it is passed on the offspring?
ANSWER:
A type of gene therapy called somatic gene therapy involves modifying the DNA of the
body's non-reproductive cells. transfer of a section of DNA to any cell of the body that does
not produce sperm or eggs. Since somatic gene therapy only affects the recipient's DNA and
not their germ cells (sperm or egg cells), it does not affect the beneficiary's offspring.
Because of this, any DNA alterations brought on by somatic gene therapy are not heritable
and will not be handed down to subsequent generations. As opposed to germline gene
therapy, which alters the DNA of reproductive cells and is heritable, this does not affect the
reproductive cells. Because of ethical and safety considerations, the use of sperm-based gene
therapy in humans is not yet authorized.
2. Differentiate gene therapy techniques.
ANSWER:
Gene inhibition therapy and gene augmentation therapy are two different approaches to
gene therapy, which involve modifying gene expression to treat diseases. Gene inhibition
therapy aims to reduce the expression of a gene causing disease, while gene augmentation
therapy aims to increase the expression of a deficient or absent gene. Both approaches have
their own advantages and limitations and are being studied for their potential use in treating
a wide range of genetic diseases.