classification of gene therapy:
There are several approaches for correcting faulty genes; the most common being the
insertion of a normal gene into a specific location within the genome to replace a non
functional gene.
Gene therapy is classified into the following two types:
1. Somatic gene therapy
2. Germ line gene therapy
Somatic Gene Therapy In somatic gene therapy, the somatic cells of a patient are
targeted for foreign gene transfer. In this case the effects caused by the foreign gene
is restricted to the individual patient only, and not inherited by the patient’s offspring
or later generations.
Germ Line Gene Therapy Here, the functional genes, which are to be integrated into
the genomes, are inserted in the germ cells, i.e., sperm or eggs. Targeting of germ cells
makes the therapy heritable.
