DIVE Biology Quarterly Exam 2 Practice 2026 - Free Biology Exam Questions and Study Guide

Gene therapy is a groundbreaking approach that aims to treat or even cure genetic disorders by directly correcting defective genes within an individual's cells. This technique involves the introduction, removal, or alteration of genetic material within a person's cells. By targeting the underlying genetic cause of a disease, gene therapy seeks to restore normal function to damaged genes or replace missing proteins.

In this context, gene therapy can involve several strategies. For instance, it might use a virus as a vector to transport the healthy gene into the target cells, effectively replacing the defective gene. Alternatively, it might employ techniques like CRISPR to make precise edits to the genome, correcting mutations that are responsible for the disorder. The potential for gene therapy is particularly significant in conditions caused by single-gene mutations, such as cystic fibrosis or certain types of muscular dystrophy.

While gene cloning, stem cell research, and recombinant DNA technology are all important in the field of genetics and biotechnology, they serve different purposes. Gene cloning is primarily focused on producing copies of specific genes or DNA sequences. Stem cell research investigates the properties and potential of stem cells, with applications in regenerative medicine, but it does not specifically correct defective genes. Recombinant DNA technology is about combining DNA from different organisms to produce new genetic combinations but