Newbie Question

[yasin]

Hi all

 

I am a complete novice when it comes to genetics, so I apologies for the newbie question in advance.

 

My question is:

 

If a person had white blood cells that killed off cancer cells, could that gene be replicated and used to treat other people with cancer? Or, could you only insert that gene into an embryo to make a new born baby immune to cancer?

 

Sorry if that doesn't make sense but any reply would be helpful.

 

Thanks

 

[Endy0816]

Cancer isn't a single disease. Some types can be recognized and fought by the immune system, others not so much. Immune system can even end up helping some of them.

 

Imagine playing against an opponent who has your entire playbook.

 

There is hope. Either via advancing medical tech singling out features unique to cancer cell types and killing them or utilizing some of the methods employed other species. You can't prevent mutations, but you can minimize the danger they represent.

Edited April 17, 2014 by Endy0816