Question

Will genomic research eliminate certain diseases by modifying DNA? what issues are raised by DNA manipulation?

please include the reference

Answer 1

Yes, DNA modification can eliminate certain diseases. Correction of a genetic defect involves delivery of a normal gene into the individual or the embryo to take over the function of and compensate for the non- functional gene. For instance: ADA deficiency, this enzyme is crucial for immune function.

The disorder is caused due to deletion of gene for adenosine deaminase enzyme. Lymphocytes from the blood of the patients are grown in a culture outside the body. A functional ADA cDNA (using a retroviral vector) is introduced into these lymphocytes which are subsequently returned into the patient.

Sometimes DNA manipulation can leads to genetic mutation due to change in the sequence of nucleotides. It may be worse when there is mis-sense mutation.