PRESENTATION OUTLINE
CURING LEUKEMIA WITH GENE THERAPY
Leukemia is a cancer of the body's blood forming tissues, including bone marrow and the lymphatic system. It is more common in children and occurs when abnormal white cells that don't function properly are produced. There are different typed of leukemia, but the some of the side effects that are common in all types are fevers/chills, nose bleeds, bone pains, and losing weight without trying.
A few studies were conducted by Dr. Rebecca Gardner at Seattle Children's Research Institute and were named PLAT-01 and PLAT-02. These studies used T cell therapy on patients with relapsed or refractory CD19 + ALL. Through this therapy, T cells are removed, genetically "rebuilt", and multiplied.
First, a blood sample is taken from the patient and the T cells are removed. They are then "reprogrammed" by adding recombinant DNA (viral vector). Recombinant DNA is DNA that is artificially formed by combining parts of different organisms. Then, the new modified T cells are grown to multiply and are put back into the bloodstream through an IV.
What really happened was a Velcro-like thing that helps to recognize and bind to a target on CD19 cells (cancer cells), was added onto the surface of the T cells. Once the T cells bind, the cancer cells are attacked and eventually are gone.
The T cell therapy is safe, but causes severe flu-like symptoms while the patient is being treated. Other than that, the therapy is very beneficial by treating cancer patients and allowing them to become cancer free and live to lead a healthy lifestyle.
I believe this therapy is ethical because it works and is mainly safe.
