What does the process of gene therapy seek to accomplish?

• A. To improve crop yields through genetic modification
• B. To modify genes to treat or prevent disease
• C. To clone specific genes for industrial purposes
• D. To enhance natural evolution of species

Answer: (B)

Gene therapy specifically aims to modify genes to treat or prevent disease by addressing the underlying genetic causes of a disorder. This innovative approach often involves introducing a healthy copy of a gene into cells to replace a defective one, thereby restoring normal function and alleviating symptoms of genetic diseases. For example, in conditions like cystic fibrosis or certain types of inherited blindness, gene therapy can provide a long-term solution by targeting the root cause of the illness rather than merely managing symptoms.

The other options highlight different aspects of biotechnology but do not align with the specific objectives of gene therapy. Improving crop yields through genetic modification pertains to agricultural biotechnology, focusing on enhancing food production rather than disease treatment. Cloning genes serves industrial and research purposes but does not directly involve therapy for diseases. Similarly, enhancing natural evolution of species involves concepts like natural selection and adaptation, which are broader ecological phenomena rather than specific interventions aimed at treating individual genetic disorders. Thus, the process inherent in gene therapy is uniquely focused on therapeutic applications and disease prevention through gene modification.