Gene therapy: what it is, what it is not and what it will be

Abstract

Gene therapy is the therapeutic procedure based on the introduction of healthy genes using recombinant DNA techniques. The first successful clinical trial of this technique was published in 1990. Despite the occurrence, in certain clinical trials, of adverse effects, some of which serious, both laboratories and companies are continuously developing novel materials and establishing both safer and more effective procedures. Although still in experimental stages, recent progress both points to growing opportunities for investment by industry, as well as justify the expectation that, in some cases, this technology may reach clinical practice within a few years.