NEET2018ZoologyBiotechnology and Its ApplicationsActual
What might be an advantage of beginning gene therapy prior to birth?
Options
- AThis would give the body plenty of time to utilise the new genes.
- BThe body would not reject it as it has not yet recognised 'self'.
- CThe cells being extremely young, are more receptive to gene therapy.
- DProbably there is not any advantage.
Correct answer
B. The body would not reject it as it has not yet recognised 'self'.
Step-by-step solution
There are great advances in the identification and construction of genes but attempts at inserting them and coaxing them to function normally within human body have not been successful. The immune system destroys cells expressing the newly inserted genes. Parental gene therapy or gene therapy prior to birth overcomes this problem as the body does not reject them. Recognition of 'self' and 'foreign' is not developed at this stage.