somatic gene therapy
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Related to somatic gene therapy: somatic cell gene therapy
somatic gene therapy
An experimental method of cloning genes and reintroducing them into cells for the purpose of correcting inherited disease. As this form of therapy develops so do ethical questions concerning its use: what diseases should be treated, and whether an individual could be treated to enhance his or her normal condition (e.g., to become a stronger or faster athlete).
See also: gene therapy
Medical Dictionary, © 2009 Farlex and Partners
somatic gene therapy
Genetic treatment that affects only the SOMATIC cells and thus is limited in its effect to the individual treated. The alternative form-genetic treatment affecting the germ cells in the ovaries or testicles-may be perpetuated through succeeding generations. For this reason it is generally prohibited.Collins Dictionary of Medicine © Robert M. Youngson 2004, 2005
Somatic gene therapy
The introduction of genes into tissue or cells to treat a genetic related disease in an individual.
Mentioned in: Gene Therapy
Gale Encyclopedia of Medicine. Copyright 2008 The Gale Group, Inc. All rights reserved.