somatic cell gene therapy

Somatic cell gene therapy involves modifying or replacing faulty genes within specific body cells to treat or prevent disease. It targets non-reproductive cells, meaning the changes aren’t inherited by future generations. Techniques often use viruses or other methods to deliver healthy gene copies into affected cells, helping restore normal function. This approach is used for conditions like certain genetic disorders, cancers, or acquired diseases. Because it affects only the individual's body cells, somatic gene therapy aims to provide long-term benefits while avoiding genetic changes to offspring.