Illustration of the double helix strand of DNA undergoing genetic engineering,or gene therapy,as it is also called. Advances in understanding and the manipulation of the genetic code have set the stage for altering a person's genetic material in order to fight or prevent disease. Gene therapy involves the introduction of genetic material,either RNA or DNA,into a person's cells in order to effect a positive outcome in disease fighting and prevention. In some cases,researchers are introducing a specific gene into a cell through the RNA of a retrovirus,seen at the top. Scientists alter the viruses used in genetic therapy to make them safe for humans and to increase their ability to deliver specific genes to a person's cells. Researchers are studying several ways to treat cancer using genetic therapy. One approach targets cancer cells,destroying them or inhibiting their growth. Proteins,shown here in the center,are a key ingredient in this type of cancer therapy |