Gene therapy and genetic engineering are two related fields that involve the manipulation of genetic material.
Gene therapy is a medical intervention that involves the delivery of genetic material to cells or tissues to treat or prevent diseases. Gene therapy can be used to replace missing or defective genes, introduce new genes that can correct or modify the function of existing genes, or target and destroy specific cells, such as cancer cells. Gene therapy can be delivered to cells in vivo (in the body) or ex vivo (outside the body, such as in cells cultured in a laboratory).
Gene therapy has the potential to treat a wide range of diseases, including genetic disorders, cancer, and viral infections. However, gene therapy is still in the early stages of development, and there are significant challenges to overcome, such as delivering the genetic material safely and effectively to the target cells, avoiding off-target effects, and ensuring long-term safety and efficacy.
Genetic engineering, on the other hand, is a broader term that refers to the manipulation of genetic material for a variety of applications, including research, biotechnology, and agriculture. Genetic engineering involves the manipulation of DNA or RNA molecules to alter or introduce new traits, such as increased crop yields, resistance to pests or disease, or improved protein production.
Genetic engineering techniques include gene editing, such as CRISPR-Cas9, which allows for precise modifications of specific genes, and genetic modification, such as the introduction of genes from one organism into another, which can result in genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
Genetic engineering has been used in a variety of applications, such as the production of medicines, the development of new crops, and the production of biofuels. However, there are also concerns about the potential environmental and health risks associated with GMOs and the ethical implications of manipulating genetic material.