[Campbell Biology P.483] Based on the principles of permanent gene therapy for somatic cells... | Practice Question

Based on the principles of permanent gene therapy for somatic cells, why are bone marrow cells considered prime candidates?

  • A: They are easily accessible for extraction and re-injection.
  • B: They are the only cells in the body that can integrate viral DNA.
  • C: They include stem cells that multiply throughout the patient's life, ensuring the persistence of the normal allele.
  • D: They have a low rate of metabolism, thus prolonging the life of the inserted gene.

Explanation

The text states: 'For gene therapy of somatic cells to be permanent, the cells that receive the normal allele must be cells that multiply throughout the patient's life. Bone marrow cells, which include the stem cells that give rise to all the cells of the blood and immune system, are prime candidates.'