What is gene therapy primarily used for?

• A. To replace damaged tissues in the body
• B. To modify an individual's genetic makeup to treat diseases
• C. To enhance physical appearance
• D. To improve agricultural yield

Answer: (B)

Gene therapy is primarily utilized to modify an individual's genetic makeup to treat diseases. This innovative approach involves introducing, removing, or altering genetic material within a person's cells to combat or prevent diseases, particularly genetic disorders, certain types of cancer, and viral infections. By targeting the underlying genetic causes of these conditions, gene therapy aims to correct faulty genes or provide a healthy version of a gene to restore normal function.

This focus on treating diseases distinguishes gene therapy from other applications. For instance, while there are methods for replacing damaged tissues, they do not align with the core purpose of gene therapy. Similarly, enhancing physical appearance or improving agricultural yield falls under different domains of biotechnology, such as cosmetic procedures and agrigenomics, rather than the therapeutic focus of gene therapy. Thus, the essence of gene therapy is specifically about modifying genetic information to address health-related challenges.