What is the primary purpose of gene therapy?

The primary purpose of gene therapy is to treat or prevent diseases. This innovative approach involves altering the genes inside a person's cells to either prevent or treat diseases, particularly those caused by genetic mutations. Gene therapy can work by directly correcting or replacing defective genes, introducing new or modified genes that can help fight the disease, or even making existing genes function more effectively.

This method holds significant promise for treating a variety of conditions, including genetic disorders, certain types of cancer, and viral infections. Unlike approaches that focus on improving physical attributes or enhancing athletic performance, gene therapy is specifically targeted toward addressing underlying health issues, thus aiming to improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

Promoting genetic diversity can be a beneficial aspect of breeding and conservation efforts, but it isn't the main focus of gene therapy, which is fundamentally oriented towards medical interventions.