Why Is Insertional Inactivation of an Essential Gene Not Likely

question 12

Multiple Choice

Why is insertional inactivation of an essential gene not likely to be an important risk in retroviral-mediated gene therapies?

• A) The number of essential genes is fairly low
• B) The gene therapy vectors do not lead to insertion of exogenous DNA into the host genome
• C) The vectors are engineered to insert the exogenous DNA into introns
• D) The likelihood of the same essential gene being inactivated in a significant number of host cells is small
• E) The exogenous DNA is designed to be spliced out of the host gene's transcripts and should not interfere with expression of the host genes

---

Definitions:

Crayon

A stick of colored wax, charcoal, chalk, or other material used for writing, drawing, or coloring.

Symbolic Tool

A tangible or conceptual tool used to represent or stand for something else, aiding in communication, thought processes, or solving problems.

Religion

A set of beliefs, practices, and moral values centered around questions of ultimate meaning, typically involving worship of or belief in a higher power(s).

Biocultural Foundations

The interplay between biological and cultural factors that shapes behaviours, traits, and health outcomes in populations.