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What is gene therapy?Gene therapy is an experimental technique that uses genes to treat or prevent disease. In the future, this technique may allow doctors to treat a disorder by inserting a gene into a patient’s cells instead of using drugs or surgery. Researchers are testing several approaches to gene therapy, including:
Although gene therapy is a promising treatment option for a number of diseases (including inherited disorders, some types of cancer, and certain viral infections), the technique remains risky and is still under study to make sure that it will be safe and effective. Gene therapy is currently only being tested for the treatment of diseases that have no other cures. For general information about gene therapy:MedlinePlus from the National Library of Medicine offers a list of links to information about genes and gene The fact sheet Gene Educational resources related to gene The Genetic Science Learning Center at the University of Utah provides an interactive introduction to gene The Centre for Genetics Education provides an introduction to gene |