Question
41. Explain the idea of gene therapy, and discuss the problems with this technique as demonstrated
in the treatment of SCID.
42.
Explain how transgenic "pharm" animals might be able to produce human proteins.
Answer
Gene therapy is a technique that involves introducing genetic material into cells to treat or prevent a disease. In the case of SCID (Severe Combined Immunodeficiency), gene therapy has been used to introduce a functional copy of the gene responsible for the disease. However, this technique has been met with some challenges, such as the risk of introducing unintended mutations and the difficulty of delivering the gene to the correct cells. Transgenic "pharm" animals are animals that have been genetically modified to produce human proteins. This is done by introducing a gene that codes for the desired protein into the animal's genome. The proteins can then be harvested from the animal for use in medical treatments.