Question

Severe Combined Immunodeficiency (SCID) is a group of rare inherited disorders related to the immune system. People with SCID are typically very vulnerable to infections because their immune system is weak or absent. The most common type of SCID is caused by a mutation in one particular gene located on the X chromosome.

A scientist wants to develop a treatment solution for the most common type of SCID. Several types of biotechnology are described below.

Types of Biotechnology

Biotechnology Description
gene cloning a segment of an individual's DNA is copied exactly
and multiplied many times during a short period
gene therapy specific gene sequences are inserted into an
individual's cells to replace defective genes
artificial selection organisms with specific qualities are bred together
to produce a specific type of offspring
genetic fingerprinting specific genetic markers are used to create a unique
profile of an individual's DNA

Based on the information above, which type of biotechnology would the scientist most likely use to design a treatment plan for a patient with the most common type of SCID?
A.
gene therapy
B.
genetic fingerprinting
C.
artificial selection
D.
gene cloning

Answer 1

A. gene therapy

Explanation: The most common SCID is caused by a defective gene. Gene therapy involves inserting functional gene sequences into a patient's cells to replace the defective gene, which is the appropriate approach for treating a single-gene disorder. Gene cloning copies DNA (useful for research), genetic fingerprinting is for identification, and artificial selection is for breeding — none of which directly treat the patient's genetic defect.