Cell and gene therapy is a rapidly evolving medical field. Although it is still in the beginning stages of research, it can lead to promising therapy solutions for patients with a wide range of diseases. Anything from cancer to autoimmune disorders can be treated with some form of cell and gene therapy.
Cell Therapy Cell therapy is the introduction of living cells in order to repair or replace damaged cells and tissues. There are two types of cell therapy, autologous(cells derived from the patient), or allogenic (cells derived from a donor).
Gene Therapy
Gene therapy is the introduction, removal, or altering of genetic material to manipulate how a group of proteins is produced in a cell.
The image above shows an example of cell and gene therapy. A virus vector(harmless) carries a certain genetic code which is transported to the nucleus of the cell where the genetic code of the cell is altered.
Although cell and gene therapy has been around since the 90's, it is still an extremely underdeveloped field. Part of the reason there hasn't been a lot of research done in this field is due to difficulties in mass production, clinical translation, costs, and limitations in treatment access.
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