The Question is from neet-botany biotechnology , and it was created by the author B VENKAT

Question

In gene therapy, which vector is commonly used to deliver functional genes into a patient's cells?

B VENKAT · Accepted Answer

## CORE INFORMATION
✓ **Answer**: C
## CONCEPT FRAMEWORK
 **Primary Concept**: Gene therapy vectors
 **Related Topics**: Viral vectors, non-viral vectors, gene delivery systems
 **Prerequisites**: Basic understanding of gene therapy and molecular biology.
## SOLUTION PATHWAY
**Given Information**:
The question asks about the commonly used vector in gene therapy to deliver functional genes into a patient's cells.
**Method & Steps**:
Gene therapy aims to introduce functional genes into cells to correct genetic defects or treat diseases.  Vectors are crucial for delivering these genes effectively. Several types of vectors exist, each with advantages and disadvantages.
1. **Analysis of Options:**
    * **A. Bacteria:** While bacteria can be used in some genetic engineering techniques, they are not the primary vector for delivering genes directly into human cells in gene therapy due to safety and delivery challenges.
    * **B. Plasmids:** Plasmids are circular DNA molecules that can be used in genetic engineering, but their use in gene therapy is limited due to their relatively low efficiency in delivering genes into human cells and their potential to trigger an immune response.
    * **C. Modified viruses:** Modified viruses, particularly adenoviruses, retroviruses, and adeno-associated viruses (AAVs), are the most commonly used vectors in gene therapy. They are efficient at delivering genes into specific cells and can sometimes integrate the gene into the host's genome for long-term expression.  They are modified to reduce their pathogenicity while retaining their gene delivery capabilities.
    * **D. Liposomes:** Liposomes are lipid vesicles that can encapsulate DNA and deliver it into cells. They are considered non-viral vectors and are used in some gene therapy applications, but viral vectors are generally more efficient and preferred due to their ability to target specific cells.
2. **Conclusion:**
    Modified viruses are the most commonly used vectors in gene therapy due to their high efficiency and ability to deliver genes into target cells.
3. **Final Answer:**
    The correct answer is C: Modified viruses.
## OPTION ANALYSIS
A :x: Bacteria are not commonly used as gene therapy vectors.
B :x: Plasmids are less efficient than viral vectors for gene delivery in gene therapy.
C ✓: Modified viruses are the most common and effective vectors for gene delivery in gene therapy.
D :x: Liposomes are non-viral vectors and are less efficient than viral vectors.
## LEARNING AIDS
 **Common Mistakes**:
  1. Confusing plasmids with viral vectors: Plasmids are not as efficient for gene delivery into human cells as viral vectors.
  2. Overlooking the safety modifications of viral vectors:  The viruses used in gene therapy are significantly modified to reduce their pathogenicity.
 **Quick Tips**:
  1. Remember that viral vectors are the workhorse of gene therapy due to their efficiency.
  2.  Focus on the key properties of a good vector: efficiency of delivery, target cell specificity, and safety.

B VENKAT · Answer

Bacteria

B VENKAT · Answer

Plasmids

B VENKAT · Answer

The correct Option is "Modified viruses"

B VENKAT · Answer

Liposomes

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