What might be an advantage of beginning gene therapy prior to birth ?

Options

A. This would give the body plenty of time to utilise the new genes
B. The body would not reject it as it has not yet recognised self
C. The cells being extremely young, are mor receptive of gene therapy
D. There probably is not any advantage

Answer

**Step-by-Step Text Solution:**

1. **Understanding Gene Therapy**: Gene therapy involves manipulating the genetic makeup of an organism. This can include inserting or adding new genes to correct genetic disorders or enhance certain traits.

2. **Timing of Gene Therapy**: The question asks about the advantages of starting gene therapy before birth. This timing is crucial because it can influence how well the therapy is accepted by the body.

3. **Innate Immunity After Birth**: After birth, a child has developed innate immunity. This means that the body recognizes foreign substances, including newly introduced genes, as potential threats. As a result, the immune system may generate a response to reject these foreign genes.

4. **Pre-Birth Stage**: Before birth, during the pre-embryonic stage, the developing fetus has not yet fully established its immune system. At this stage, the body does not recognize the newly introduced genes as foreign. Therefore, gene therapy is more likely to be accepted without an immune response.

5. **Conclusion**: The primary advantage of beginning gene therapy prior to birth is that the body is more receptive to the new genes, reducing the likelihood of rejection. This allows for effective integration of the therapeutic genes into the child's genetic makeup.

6. **Final Answer**: The advantage of beginning gene therapy prior to birth is that the body has not yet recognized itself, making it more likely to accept the new genes without an immune response.

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