How is genetic modification used in medicine?

Genetic modification in medicine is used to treat or prevent diseases by altering the genes in a person's cells.

Genetic modification, also known as genetic engineering, is a revolutionary technique in the field of medicine. It involves the manipulation of an organism's genes using biotechnology. In medicine, this technique is used to treat or prevent diseases by altering the genes in a person's cells. This is often done through a process called gene therapy.

Gene therapy is a medical field which focuses on the utilisation of the natural function of genes to either prevent or cure disease. In this process, doctors introduce, remove, or change genetic material within a patient's cells to treat or prevent disease. This is particularly useful in treating genetic disorders, where a faulty gene is replaced or supplemented with a healthy copy. For example, in the case of cystic fibrosis, a faulty gene that causes the disease can be replaced with a healthy one, potentially curing the patient.

Another application of genetic modification in medicine is the production of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) that can produce pharmaceuticals. This is known as 'pharming'. For instance, bacteria can be genetically modified to produce insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. This insulin can then be harvested and used to treat patients with diabetes.

Genetic modification is also used in the development of personalised medicine. By understanding a person's genetic makeup, doctors can predict how they will respond to certain drugs and treatments, allowing for more effective and tailored healthcare.

In conclusion, genetic modification has a wide range of applications in medicine, from treating genetic disorders to producing pharmaceuticals and personalising medicine. It is a rapidly evolving field with the potential to revolutionise healthcare.