How does gene therapy function in medical biotechnology?

Gene therapy is a groundbreaking approach in medical biotechnology that functions primarily by introducing genetic material into a patient's cells. This technique aims to treat or prevent diseases, particularly those caused by genetic abnormalities. The essence of gene therapy lies in its ability to either replace, inactivate, or introduce genes to restore normal function, correct genetic defects, or elicit a specific therapeutic response.

For instance, in cases of genetic disorders like cystic fibrosis or certain types of muscular dystrophy, gene therapy can deliver functional copies of a gene that is defective or missing, thus enabling cells to produce the required proteins for healthy physiological function. This method can tackle a variety of diseases, from inherited genetic disorders to certain cancers and viral infections.

While other choices touch on relevant aspects of medical biotechnology, they do not encapsulate the core mechanism of gene therapy. Preventing the replication of viruses refers more to antiviral therapies rather than gene therapy itself. Altering proteins in the bloodstream encompasses a range of treatments and is not specific to gene therapy. Similarly, removing defective genes from chromosomes does not accurately describe the therapeutic action of gene therapy, which focuses more on the introduction of new or corrected genetic material rather than the physical removal of genes.