Genetic engineering in medicine

Genetic engineering procedures are becoming more and more important in medicine for diagnostic purposes (A-C). New genetic approaches to the treatment of severe diseases are still in the developmental stage ( gene therapy, D). 

Diagnosis of sickle-cell anemia using RFLP O 

In viral infections, it is often dif cult to determine the species of the pathogen precisely. RT-PCR can be used to identify RNA viruses. In this procedure, reverse transcriptase (see p. 404) is used to transcribe the viral RNA into dsDNA, and then PCR is employed to 

Many diseases, such as hereditary metabolic defects and tumors, can still not be adequately treated. About 10 years ago, projects were therefore initiated that aimed to treat diseases of this type by transferring genes into the affected cells (gene therapy). The illustration combines conceivable and already implemented approaches to gene therapy for metabolic defects (left) and tumors (right). None of these procedures has yet become established in clinical practice. 

Koolman, Color Atlas of Biochemistry, 2nd edition 2005 Thieme All rights reserved. Usage subject to terms and conditions of license. 

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